82 Chinese nationals and 4 other foreigners face deportation after they were caught in an online scam operation in Makati.
According to the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the foreigners arrested include 3 Malaysians and 1 Vietnamese. They are currently undergoing the booking and documentation process and will be placed in the BI detention facility at Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig while awaiting their deportation.
The suspects were caught in a condominium at Sen. Gil Puyat Avenue, Barangay Pio del Pilar on April 10, 2025. The operation was conducted by the BI's Fugitive Search Unit together with the CIDG (Criminal Investigation and Detection Group).
According to the CIDG, a Chinese man sent a message on WhatsApp, claiming to be trapped at work and unable to leave. Authorities immediately operated after a mission order was issued by Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado.
The suspects used e-commerce and love scam tactics to earn money illegally. They did not have work permits, which is why they were caught.
