MANILA, Philippines —Four Chinese nationals were arrested in Makati City by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), with one identified as a fugitive wanted in China for telecom fraud. The arrests highlight ongoing efforts by Philippine authorities to crack down on foreign fugitives hiding in the country.

The BI confirmed that operatives apprehended Zhang Jinglong, Zhang Pengguang, Feng Mincong, and Zhang Yunpeng in Makati City on March 25, 2026. Officials said the suspects failed to present valid passports or immigration documents during the operation.

The primary target of the arrest was Zhang Jinglong, who is wanted by authorities in Guangdong, China for alleged involvement in telecom fraud. BI records revealed that Zhang attempted to mislead authorities by claiming he was a national of Vanuatu, but official documents confirmed his Chinese citizenship.

The operation was carried out by the BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) led by Chief Rendel Ryan Sy, in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Makati City Police, and government intelligence agencies. Zhang was arrested along Mercedez Street in Barangay Bel-Air following intelligence reports from Chinese authorities.

BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco said the arrests demonstrate the agency’s commitment to ensuring that the Philippines does not become a safe haven for fugitives. “Foreign nationals who attempt to evade justice in their home countries will find no refuge here,” he emphasized.

The four suspects are currently detained at the BI facility in Taguig City while deportation proceedings are being prepared. Authorities confirmed that Zhang Jinglong will be deported to China to face charges, while the other three will be deported for immigration violations.

This case underscores the Philippines’ cooperation with international law enforcement in combating transnational crime. Analysts note that telecom fraud has become a major issue in East Asia, with syndicates often operating across borders.

The arrests in Makati City serve as a reminder of the government’s intensified monitoring of foreign nationals, particularly those suspected of criminal activity, as part of broader efforts to strengthen national security.