Fifteen Chinese nationals in Sibugay, Zamboanga under Immigration investigation — scam hub and human trafficking links being verified

Fifteen Chinese nationals in Sibugay, Zamboanga under Immigration investigation — scam hub and human trafficking links being verified

📌 On October 13 (Tuesday), the Bureau of Immigration (BI) served Mission Order on 15 Chinese male nationals in Alicia, Zamboanga Sibugay, Mindanao, and launched an investigation. Authorities are working to determine whether they are operators linked to a previously raided scam hub or victims of human trafficking.

■ Background
· The 15 Chinese nationals were rescued by Alicia police and have been staying at the Alicia Police Station.
· On October 13 (Tuesday), the BI's local intelligence team executed Mission Order No. 2026-365, with security support from the 106th Infantry Battalion of the 1st Infantry Division of the Philippine Army and intelligence units.
· Initial reports indicated they were connected to people arrested in a separate raid on October 2 (Friday) in Tandiong Muslim, a barangay in the same town.

■ Investigation and Current Status
· The military said it has not yet confirmed whether the group are masterminds of the scam hub or trafficking victims, and that this will be determined by the outcome of the investigation.
· Their lawyers were present when the Mission Order was executed.
· The 15 have been moved to a lodging facility in Sibugay, where they are undergoing identity verification, documentation, and checks of their residency status. Legal action will be decided based on the investigation's findings.

■ Notes for Residents and Travelers
· Before accepting overseas job offers promising high pay, verify the company's legitimacy and the visa and work permit conditions. Some people have been lured and forced to work at scam hubs.
· If your residency status is not in order, you may become subject to an Immigration investigation, so always keep your passport and visa documents on hand.

■ Source
Daily Tribune (10/15)