MANILA – Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) have arrested in Quezon City a Japanese national linked to a notorious fraud syndicate.

In a statement, the BI said the 50-year-old was apprehended along Quirino Highway in Barangay Santa Monica, Novaliches.

The suspect is facing deportation after BI Commissioner received information from Japanese authorities that he is the subject of an arrest warrant issued by the Fukuoka Summary Court for theft.

The head of the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit said the suspect is believed to be one of the surviving members of the JP Dragon syndicate, notoriously known for theft and fraud operations in Japan.

The group reportedly targeted elderly victims by posing as law enforcers to steal ATM cards and banking information under the guise of police investigations.

Following the arrest, the suspect was transferred to the BI’s facility in Taguig pending deportation proceedings.

Bureau of Immigration

The Bureau of Immigration is a U.S. federal agency, originally established in 1891 to administer immigration laws. Its history is deeply tied to the federalization of immigration control, evolving from earlier state-run systems to manage and regulate the flow of people entering the country. Today, its functions are carried out by agencies within the Department of Homeland Security, such as U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Quezon City

Quezon City was founded in 1939 and served as the capital of the Philippines from 1948 to 1976, replacing Manila. It is now the country’s most populous city and a major center for government, education, and commerce, housing key institutions like the House of Representatives and the University of the Philippines.

Quirino Highway

Quirino Highway is a major thoroughfare in Metro Manila, Philippines, named after former President Elpidio Quirino. It was historically part of the Manila North Road and serves as a vital transportation artery connecting several districts. Its history is tied to the development and urban expansion of Quezon City.

Barangay Santa Monica

Barangay Santa Monica is a coastal community in the municipality of Puerto Princesa, on the island of Palawan, Philippines. Historically, its economy has been based on fishing and agriculture, with its development closely tied to the growth of Puerto Princesa City as an administrative and ecotourism hub.

Novaliches

Novaliches is a historic district in Quezon City, Metro Manila, originally established as a separate town in 1855. It is most famous for being the site of the Novaliches Reservoir, a critical water source for the capital, and the La Mesa Watershed. The area was a significant battleground during the Philippine-American War.

Fukuoka Summary Court

The Fukuoka Summary Court is a local judicial body in Fukuoka, Japan, that handles minor civil disputes and summary criminal offenses. Established under Japan’s post-war judicial system, it is part of the nationwide network of summary courts designed to provide accessible and efficient legal proceedings for the public.

JP Dragon syndicate

I am not familiar with a cultural or historical site known as the “JP Dragon syndicate.” This term does not correspond to any known landmark, museum, or recognized cultural institution. It may refer to a fictional concept from a game, book, or film.

Taguig

Taguig is a highly urbanized city in Metro Manila, Philippines, historically known as a fishing and agricultural community. It has rapidly transformed into a major financial and commercial hub, most notably with the development of the Bonifacio Global City (BGC) on land formerly part of a military base.