On Saturday, 22 March, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) detained five blacklisted Chinese nationals at Zamboanga International Airport as they attempted to leave the country illegally.

The operation, conducted jointly by the BI Intelligence Division (BIID) and the BI Fugitive Search Unit (BI-FSU), resulted in the arrest of Ying Guanzhen, 31; Yang Jinlong, 29; Liu Xin, 28; Shen Kan, 36; and Luo Honglin, 27.

All five individuals were previously affiliated with Lucky South 99, a Philippine Offshore Gaming Operator (POGO) raided for alleged illegal operations. The BI confirmed that two of the suspects are fugitives wanted in China.

According to government intelligence sources, the group attempted to use a “transporter” to evade authorities and exit the country via the backdoor route from Tawi-Tawi to Sabah, Malaysia. Locals explained that a transporter facilitates the illegal movement of people from the Philippines to neighboring countries.

Their escape was thwarted by Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) authorities when the group's boat suffered engine trouble near Languyan Island, Tawi-Tawi.

BI officials verified that all five were blacklisted and had violated the conditions of their stay in the country. BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado immediately ordered their arrest following confirmation.

The group was flown to Zamboanga City under police escort and turned over to the Philippine National Police (PNP) after being informed of their immigration violations. The BI Legal Division has since launched a preliminary investigation.

Viado thanked government intelligence agencies for their coordination, which he said was key to the successful operation.

"This joint arrest highlights how crucial it is that we work closely with government intelligence sources to make sure that fugitives and undocumented foreign nationals don't take advantage of our borders," the BI chief said.

He also emphasized the need for local government units and law enforcement agencies in vulnerable areas to remain vigilant in preventing illegal cross-border activity.

The five Chinese nationals will remain in custody while deportation proceedings are underway.