Press Release
MANILA – The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Sunday said it is ramping up its internal investigation following the re-arrest of South Korean fugitive Na Ikhyeon, who escaped under suspicious circumstances.
BI Commissioner Joel Viado, at the same time, warned that more employees are facing suspension for possible involvement or negligence.
Na, wanted in South Korea for fraud and other charges, was initially arrested in the Philippines but managed to escape while in BI custody on March 4. He was recaptured on March 9.
“This incident exposed deep-rooted problems within the system. This is not a simple mistake. There’s collusion here,” Viado said in Filipino, as quoted in a news release.
“We are identifying more personnel who may have played a role, directly or indirectly, in this escape,” he said, emphasizing that they have already recommended the preventive suspension of several BI personnel.
It is in addition to two contractual workers already fired and a permanent BI employee dismissed from service and facing charges.
To prevent similar incidents in the future, Viado ordered the tightening of surveillance, implementing background checks, rotating personnel and strengthening ties with foreign intelligence agencies.
Plans are also underway to move detainees to a more secure facility.
Law enforcement agencies, including the National Bureau of Investigation, police and International Police, are closely working with the BI to ensure the immediate arrest and deportation of fugitives.
On Saturday, the BI said it has turned over to the Department of Justice the case of Na, who was re-arrested with his companion in a residential area in Angeles City, Pampanga. (PR)
