CLARK FREEPORT, Pampanga — Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) arrested a South Korean fugitive wanted for narcotics offenses in his home country during a coordinated operation on 28 June.

The operation was carried out by the BI-FSU in coordination with the Philippine Air Force, the Clark Development Corporation Public Safety Division and South Korean authorities.

The suspect, identified as Kim Soo, 41, was arrested at a resort following intelligence sharing between Philippine and South Korean law enforcement agencies.

BI Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy said the operation stemmed from intelligence provided by the Philippine Air Force, which led to the fugitive’s location and arrest.

Kim is wanted by the Cheongju District Court in South Korea for alleged violations of the country’s Narcotics Control Act.

Authorities alleged that he operated a Telegram-based drug distribution network that advertised and sold illegal narcotics, including cocaine and hemp cartridges, while accepting payments through cryptocurrency. He is also the subject of an active Interpol Red Notice.

Immigration records showed that Kim entered the Philippines in April 2022 as a temporary visitor but failed to extend or regularize his stay, making him an overstaying alien. He had also been placed on the BI’s blacklist and watchlist as a fugitive from justice.

Following his arrest, Kim was taken to the BI detention facility, where he will remain pending deportation proceedings.