Korean fugitive nabbed for telecom fraud in Makati

In a joint law enforcement operation, the Philippine National Police (PNP), Bureau of Immigration (BI), Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC), and the Korean National Police Agency (KNPA) apprehended a Korean fugitive wanted for telecommunications and investment fraud in Makati City.

The operation took place on 18 February 2026 along Malugay Street, Barangay Bel-Air, Makati City. Pursuant to Mission Order No. 2026-069, personnel from the Bureau of Immigration – Fugitive Search Unit, PNP – Anti-Kidnapping Group, Central Luzon Satellite Office, Makati Police Station Tactical Motorcycle Rider Unit, Makati City Police Sub Station 6, and Makati City Special Weapons and Tactics participated in the arrest, alongside representatives from KNPA and PAOCC.

The suspect, identified as Yu Hwanju, 32, is subject to an active INTERPOL Red Notice (Control No. A-10524/7-2025) for fraud in violation of Article 347(1) of the Criminal Act of Korea. He also has two prior records with the Bureau of Immigration, including Blacklist Order No. BOC-2025-2117 dated 07 August 2025 and Watchlist Order No. 2025-1190 dated 01 August 2025.

Investigators said Yu orchestrated a sophisticated telecommunications-based scam that defrauded 75 victims overseas, involving stock and cryptocurrency investment schemes. The total losses reportedly amounted to 3,515,372,405 South Korean Won.

During the arrest, Yu was unable to present a valid passport or any lawful immigration documents, prompting his turnover to the Bureau of Immigration – Warden Facility (BIWF) for legal proceedings pending deportation. He was informed of his constitutional rights in a language he understood.

PAOCC Executive Director, Undersecretary Benjamin C. Acorda Jr., affirmed the commission’s support for government agencies in pursuing fugitives. “The Philippines will never be a refuge for fugitives. We will relentlessly pursue them, strengthen partnerships across borders, and ensure every criminal hiding within our shores is brought to justice,” he said.

PNP Chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. noted the arrest demonstrated the value of coordinated action with international partners, stressing that cross-border crimes require collaborative law enforcement efforts.