BI readies raps vs arrested Chinese ‘spies’
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Friday warned coddlers of foreign spies in the country that cases will be filed against them for violation of existing Philippine laws.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said they are closely working with the Department of Justice (DOJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation to obtain information about the alleged spies earlier arrested by the NBI and those being monitored by the military.
Based on initial checks, he said the foreigners have regular immigration status in the Philippines, adding to the suspicion that they have successfully embedded themselves in society.
Viado said they have committed to the DOJ that they will file all appropriate cases against the suspects and their cohorts to ensure that they face the full brunt of Philippine laws and suffer the maximum penalties for their crimes.
Viado issued the statement a day after NBI Director Jaime Santiago, together with Armed Forces of the Philippines chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., presented five Chinese nationals arrested for allegedly engaging in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance operations in the country.
Santiago said the suspects claimed to be members of civic groups Qiaoxing Volunteer Group of the Philippines and Philippine-China Association of Promotion of Peace and Friendship Inc.
