Bureau of Immigration (BI) has arrested seven Chinese nationals in Masinloc, Zambales, for working without proper visas and engaging in illegal sand dredging activities.
A report submitted to BI Commissioner Jaime H. Morente stated that the Chinese were jointly arrested by BI intelligence officers and police operatives belonging to the PNP 305th Maneuver Company Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) and Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) Region 3.
“The foreigners violated not only our immigration laws but also the Philippine Mining Act of 1995,” BI chief said.
He said the aliens are seriously threatening national security and interest by stealing our mineral resources.
According to BI intelligence officers Ricardo Cabochan and John Mendez, who led the arresting team, three groups searched six vessels which included “Sand Carrier Horner 1” where subjects Chen Shiniu and Chen Shaoshao were found, and “Dredger Warrior 6” which carried Xu Xiansheng, Jiang Xin, Zhao Yihong, Gong Yaan and Xie Yuhong.
Upon questioning , the foreigners were found to be overstaying and working without proper visas or permits.
They were brought to the BI main office for further verification and proper inquest proceedings.
BI intelligence chief Jonathan S. Manahan, Jr. said “the operation stemmed from an intelligence information and constant coordination with elements from PNP – Region III.” (Jun Ramirez)