2 Indian nationals arrested in Antipolo for immigration violations, interference

Two Indian nationals were arrested by operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) during an enforcement operation in a residential area of Antipolo City last week, authorities said Friday.

In a press release issued Friday, the BI identified the suspects as Sukhbir Singh, 28, and Sawan Singh, 30, both Indian nationals. The pair was apprehended on January 29 in Barangay San Jose, Antipolo City.

The arrests were carried out by members of the BI Intelligence Division through its Regional Intelligence Operations Unit IV (RIOU-IV), along with the bureau’s Special Response Team. The operation was conducted under a mission order issued by BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.

Prior to the enforcement action, BI operatives coordinated with the Antipolo Component City Police Station to ensure proper law enforcement support.

According to the BI, agents first located and arrested Sukhbir Singh at his residence. 

During the operation, however, another foreign national who was later identified as Sawan Singh allegedly interfered with the authorities while they were carrying out their duties.

Operatives also reported an attempt to offer money to personnel during the enforcement activity. The alleged bribe was immediately refused, prompting officers to arrest Sawan as well.

Both individuals were brought to the BI main office, where they underwent standard booking procedures, including biometric capture, documentation, and verification through the bureau’s information system.

The bureau did not immediately disclose the specific immigration violations the two may be facing, but reiterated its commitment to strictly enforcing Philippine immigration laws.

“Those who try to interfere with legitimate BI operations will face sanctions,” Viado said.

The two foreign nationals are currently under BI custody pending further investigation and possible deportation proceedings.