BI nabs ‘fake Filipino’ in Pasay City
MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Sunday (January 24) reported the arrest of a Chinese national who allegedly misrepresented herself as a Filipino national.
In a statement, BI Commissioner Jaime Morente announced the arrest of 51-year-old Li Xinlei inside the Pasay City Hall compound by members of the BI’s Intelligence Division (ID) on Thursday (January 21).
Further investigation revealed that Li is a fugitive from justice, subject of an arrest warrant in China for economic crimes.
“When our agents arrested her, she was unable to show proper documentation,” shared BI ID Chief Fortunato Manahan, Jr.
‘Records show that she is already overstaying, and has reportedly misrepresented herself as a Filipino using a fraudulently acquired Philippine passport,” he added.
Li was in the city hall for a scheduled preliminary investigation for a separate case when the BI agents conducted the arrest.
“This is a significant arrest for the BI as Li is part of a list of wanted criminals that we have been pursuing,” stated Manahan.
“The Chinese government sought our assistance in locating and deporting these fugitives, so they may face trial in their home country for their crimes,” he added.
Li underwent RT-PCR testing as a matter of protocol, and was turned over to the BI Warden Facility in Taguig for detention, pending her deportation.
“She will be blacklisted—meaning perpetually banned from entering our country,” said Morente.
“Let this serve as a warning to aliens who will attempt to use the Philippines as their hideout. Despite the pandemic, we will not stop. Your days are numbered,” he warned.