BI-FSU nabs Korean cyber gambling fugitive with fake identity at NAIA

PASAY City—Following the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to intensify the country’s campaign against transnational crime and prevent the Philippines from being used as a refuge for international fugitives, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested a 52-year-old Korean national wanted by Interpol for allegedly operating a massive illegal online gambling syndicate.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado identified the fugitive as Cho Yungeon, also known as Cho Min, who was arrested on Tuesday, July 15, at the departure area of NAIA Terminal 1 in Pasay City by operatives of the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU), in coordination with South Korean authoritiess, the Philippine National Police-Interpol Group (PNP-IG), and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC).

FSU Chief Rendel Ryan Sy said the arrest stemmed from intelligence provided by Korean authorities, who sought the bureau’s assistance in locating the fugitive.

Cho is the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Busan District Court for allegedly operating an illegal online gambling website from Makati City beginning in January 2024.

His syndicate allegedly accepted bets on domestic and international sporting events, processed online deposits, paid out winnings based on betting odds, and also offered casino games such as baccarat. Interpol later issued a Red Notice against him.

BI records show that Cho entered the Philippines in 2019 using a Cambodian passport under the name Cho Min, while biometric verification later confirmed that he was the same individual as wanted Korean national Cho Yungeon.

“This arrest sends a clear message that the Philippines will not serve as a sanctuary for cybercriminals and international fugitives hiding behind false identities,” said Viado. “Those who exploit our immigration system to evade justice will be found, arrested, and removed from our country. Through our close cooperation with international law enforcement partners, we will continue to hunt down foreign fugitives who threaten public order and the integrity of our borders.”

The arrested foreign national was turned over to the BI Warden Facility, where he will remain pending deportation proceedings.