A South Korean national listed as a most wanted person in a grave criminal case was apprehended Friday night by the Philippine National Police (PNP) at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA).

PNP chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said operatives of NAIA Police Station 1 effected the arrest using a warrant, in coordination with the Manila Police District–Women and Children Concern Section (MPD-WCCS).

The warrant stemmed from a rape case under Criminal Case No. R-MNL-26-00099-CR, with no bail recommended. The accused was immediately placed under the custody of MPD-WCCS.

Nartatez said the arrest shows the PNP’s enforcement of court orders.

“This arrest demonstrates that the PNP respects and enforces the authority of the courts at all times. No one can evade accountability,” he said.

He reiterated the police organization’s duty to protect the public.

“Our responsibility is to ensure that justice is pursued and that victims are given the protection they deserve. We will continue to perform our duty for the safety of the people,” he added.

He also reported that during a 24-hour nationwide operation from the morning of 22 January to 23 January, the PNP arrested nine of the country’s most wanted persons, seized illegal drugs worth over P14 million, and intercepted smuggled cigarettes valued at more than P7 million.