The Bureau of Immigration reported that its operatives arrested a Ghanaian national suspected to be the mastermind of a West African syndicate that hacks automated teller machines in the Philippines.

Immigration Intelligence Division chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. identified the suspect as Victor Patrick, who was arrested in a joint operation conducted by members of the BI and the Armed Forces of the Philippines on 14 October.

According to the Immigration officer, a mission order was issued following a letter sent by local intelligence authorities regarding Patrick's illegal activities in the country.

"The AFP said that Patrick is one of the prime suspects involved in an ATM hacking syndicate. He has been seen to frequent several big banks in Barangay Moonwalk in Parañaque," Manahan said.

Manahan said that after verification of Patrick's travel history and visa status, it was learned that the foreigner arrived in the country last 20 April 2019 using a tourist visa and applied for a missionary visa, which was petitioned by a Cebu-based company.

Immigration agents then conducted surveillance on the declared address of the company and discovered that it does not exist.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said Patrick will be facing deportation charges for violation of Section 37(a)(9) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940 after obtaining an immigration document under false statement and representation.