Operatives from 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 law enforcement operation at Clark Freeport, Pampanga on 28 June.

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

The Korean fugitive—identified as Kim Soo, 41—was apprehended at a resort following intelligence sharing between Philippine and South Korean authorities.

According to BI Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy, the operation stemmed from intelligence provided by the PAF, which led to the successful location and arrest of the foreign fugitive.

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

Authorities alleged that he operated a Telegram-based drug distribution scheme, advertising and selling illegal narcotics, including cocaine and hemp cartridges, while receiving payment through cryptocurrency. He is likewise the subject of an active Interpol Red Notice.

Immigration records showed that Kim last 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 previously been placed under the Bureau's blacklist and watchlist as a fugitive from justice.

Kim was brought to the BI's detention facility after booking and documentation procedures, where he will remain pending deportation proceedings.