BI arrests 2 South Korean fugitives

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) apprehended two South Korean fugitives, Choi Wonchul and Lee Jihwan, in separate operations in Metro Manila and Cebu on January 7 and 8.

Both individuals were subjects of Interpol red notices and were found to be overstaying aliens in the Philippines.

Choi faces charges of embezzlement and fraud, allegedly pocketing approximately US$65,000 from car sales and defrauding others of US$105,000.

Lee is accused of beating and robbing a fellow South Korean national, forcing the victim to transfer 10 million won (approximately US$6,800).

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado stated that the Philippines is not a sanctuary for wanted criminals and that both fugitives will be deported and banned from re-entering the country.

Choi was placed under the custody of the Manila Police District pending the resolution of his local case.