Bureau of Immigration (BI) agents have arrested four Indians in an operation against illegal aliens in Mindanao.
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said the Indians are now undergoing deportation proceedings following their arrest in General Santos City, South Cotabato, by operatives from the bureau’s intelligence division in coordination with the Philippine National Police.
Morente said he ordered the apprehension following complaints from the community reporting the presence of illegal aliens engaged in a “5-6” lending scheme in the area.
“There will be no letup in our campaign against illegal aliens. And we reiterate our appeal to the public not to hesitate in reporting the presence of illegal aliens,” the BI chief said.
BI intelligence officer Melody Gonzales, who led the arresting team, reported that they initially rounded up 10 Indians, but upon verification six were found to have valid visas thus were recommended for release.
The other four Indians presented expired and invalid visas and were found to be working as money lenders.
The Indians are presently detained at the BI immigration district office in Davao City pending deportation proceedings. (Jun Ramirez)
