A Japanese fugitive was arrested by Philippine authorities in Manila on Wednesday afternoon, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported on Friday.

The 53-year-old Japanese identified by the BI as alias "Suk" was apprehended during a targeted enforcement operation along Soriano Ave., Intramuros.

‘Suk’, who the BI said is a member of JP Dragon syndicate, has a arrest warrant for fraud and theft issued by the Fukuoka Summary Court in February 2026.

Japanese authorities revealed that 'Suk' "belonged to a specialized criminal group that unlawfully obtained ATM cards and personal data by impersonating law enforcement officers."

"The syndicate allegedly systematically targeted and deceived vulnerable, elderly victims into surrendering their banking information under the guise of fake police investigations, leading to unauthorized withdrawals amounting to 100,000 Japanese yen," the BI stated.

It noted that the Japanese fugitive arrived in the Philippines as a temporary visitor in 2019 and managed to convert his visa to permanent resident status in April 2025.

The Japanese government in April 2026 informed the BI of his case, which led to the investigation and his arrest.

'Suk' is detained at the BI’s holding facility while facing the deportation case filed against him.

Emphasizing the directive of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to intensify the crackdown on foreign syndicates and secure the country's borders against transnational criminals, BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado noted that the Philippine borders are strictly closed to individuals who evade justice.

“Our country is not a sanctuary for international fraudsters who prey on the vulnerable," he said.

"Our successful collaboration with international partners ensures that fugitives like him will be caught and sent back to face the full force of the law," Viado added. Robina Asido/PHS