Immigration Bureau arrests 36 foreign nationals during illegal gambling operations
MANILA, Philippines—The Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested 36 foreign nationals during a massive illegal gambling operation at the Double Dragon Plaza Tower 3 in Pasay City on Monday (April 19).
According to BI Commissioner Jaime Morente, they received reports of foreign nationals working without appropriate permits.
An investigation was conducted and has verified that the company is unlicensed and is not authorized to operate.
The 36 foreigners consist of 2 Chinese nationals, 2 Indonesians, and 32 Koreans.
BI Intelligence Chief Fortunato Manahan, Jr. reported that the company was discovered to be engaged in illegal live studio gambling.
“Apart from the live studio, they were also conducting illegal and clandestine online gaming operations,” he said.
“We initially rounded up 40 individuals but found 4 of them to be sufficiently documented, being permanent residents in the country. However, the other 36 were unable to present their passports and visas, and were caught in the act of working illegally,” he added.
Morente warned illegal aliens not to commit illegal activities.
“We call on all foreigners to legalize your stay,” said Morente. “Do not take advantage of the pandemic, because despite the challenges, our work never stops, and we will continue to arrest, deport, and blacklist any alien who dares to disobey our laws,” he warned. AAC