BI cracks down holding facilities in Taguig, Muntinlupa

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has conducted back-to-back raids at its holding facilities in Taguig and Muntinlupa following allegations that detainees had access to mobile phones while in custody.

The crackdown came after statements from deported Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who claimed he was able to use a cellphone during his detention.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the alleged incident occurred sometime in June or July, adding that while raids and confiscations had already been conducted in the past, fresh information prompted the need for another large-scale operation.

The raids form part of the BI’s efforts to ensure that its holding facilities remain free of drugs and other illegal paraphernalia.

Viado said the shakedown was also meant to ensure that no detainee receives special treatment.

The operation was led by the BI’s intelligence division, in coordination with the National Capital Region Police Office and the Bureau of Corrections.

Authorities searched all rooms, quarters, and common areas, seizing various contraband items, including unauthorized cash, mobile phones, electronic gadgets and devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, knives and other sharp objects, as well as gambling cards and paraphernalia.

The BI earlier said Zdorovetskiy’s companion, foreign national Malik Dejoun Okojie, was allegedly involved in smuggling cellphones into the facility with the help of his Filipina wife.

Viado said three personnel linked to cellphone smuggling have been dismissed, with one contractual agent terminated and one officer and one staff member relieved from their posts pending investigation.

“More will follow. We will not tolerate incompetence or corruption, and we will treat this matter with utmost importance. We will ensure that those who are remiss in their duties will face the harshest consequences,” Viado said.

While the BI warden facility is not a jail but a temporary holding area for foreigners awaiting deportation, gadget use is strictly regulated. Mobile phones are allowed only for contacting family members, embassies, or legal counsel.

Viado said he is considering revoking cellphone privileges in both facilities and replacing them with landlines and supervised video call booths instead.