BI-FSU arrests 2 Japanese fugitives in Batangas

LIAN, Batangas—In line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify the crackdown on foreign fugitives and strengthen border security, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested two Japanese nationals wanted for fraud during an operation on April 8 in Lian, Batangas.

The arrested fugitives were identified as Takahashi Yuta, 45, and Sugita Yuki, 39, both male Japanese nationals. They were apprehended by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) agents at Sitio Ilaya, Barangay Matabungkay, on Wednesday afternoon.

The operation was conducted in coordination with Japanese authorities, the Philippine National Police – Intelligence Group, and the Regional Intelligence Division of PRO 4A.

According to the BI, the arrests stemmed from a request made by Japanese authorities which reported that both individuals are subjects of arrest warrants issued by the Omiya Summary Court in 2024 for fraud under Japan’s penal code.

Both Yuta and Yuki entered the Philippines on January 4, 2024 as temporary visitors but have since overstayed, with their authorized stay lapsing in August and November 2024, respectively. They have also been flagged in the BI’s system as undesirable aliens and fugitives from justice.

“Through close coordination with our international partners, we will continue to track down, arrest, and deport these individuals to uphold the integrity of our borders.”

The duo will remain in the BI Warden’s Facility while facing deportation proceedings. #