BI nabs Korean drug fugitive in joint Clark operation

 A South Korean fugitive wanted for narcotics offenses in his home country was arrested by operatives of the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) in a coordinated law enforcement operation at Clark Freeport, Pampanga on June 28.

The operation forms part of the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen the country’s campaign against transnational crime and ensure that the Philippines does not serve as a sanctuary for foreign fugitives.

It was conducted by the BI-FSU in coordination with the Philippine Air Force (PAF), the Clark Development Corporation Public Safety Division, and South Korean authorities.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified the fugitive as Kim Soo, 41, who was apprehended at a resort following intelligence sharing between Philippine and South Korean authorities.

According to BI Fugitive Search Unit Chief Rendel Ryan Sy, the operation stemmed from intelligence provided by the PAF, which led to the successful location and arrest of the foreign fugitive.

Kim is wanted by the Cheongju District Court in South Korea for alleged violations of their country’s Narcotics Control Act.

Authorities alleged that he operated a Telegram-based drug distribution scheme, advertising and selling illegal narcotics, including cocaine and hemp cartridges, while receiving payment through cryptocurrency. He is likewise the subject of an active Interpol Red Notice.

Immigration records showed that Kim last entered the Philippines in April 2022 as a temporary visitor but failed to extend or regularize his stay, making him an overstaying alien. He had also previously been placed under the Bureau’s blacklist and watchlist as a fugitive from justice.

“The success of this operation demonstrates the strength of intelligence sharing and operational cooperation among Philippine and international law enforcement agencies,” said Viado. “Foreign fugitives should understand that our borders will not shield them from accountability. Working hand in hand with our partners, we will continue to locate, arrest, and deport individuals who threaten public safety and attempt to use the Philippines as a hiding place.”

Kim was brought to the Bureau’s detention facility after booking and documentation procedures, where he will remain pending deportation proceedings. #