Fugitive claims bribe paid to BI official, cop for escape

A South Korean fugitive, Na Ikhyeon, claims he paid P6 million to a supposed Bureau of Immigration (BI) official named 'Paul' and a policeman named 'Raul' to facilitate his escape from BI detention.

Na identified 'Paul' as a high-ranking BI officer and 'Raul' as a policeman who allegedly promised to help him.

The claims were made during a Senate subcommittee hearing, where Na also admitted paying P8 million to a Korean accomplice, Kim Song Hwan, who failed to secure his bail and has since fled to Malaysia.

BI Commissioner Joel Viado stated that the bureau received photos of the suspected individuals but confirmed they are not BI employees and clarified that no officer named 'Paul' held a high-ranking position in the BI.

Viado also mentioned that no Philippine National Police personnel were detailed at the bureau during the time of the alleged bribe.

However, Viado later confirmed that two BI personnel who assisted Na's escape on March 4 have been terminated.