BI warns of human trafficking scheme using missionary guise
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) has warned about a new human trafficking scheme involving victims posing as missionaries.
On Monday, April 7, BI agents at Ninoy Aquino International Airport stopped three women from boarding a flight to Thailand under the guise of a church trip; one woman was identified as an illegal recruiter while the other two were potential victims.
During questioning, the two women admitted they were recruited for illegal employment in Thailand and that their companion was the recruiter.
This case mirrors the 'Bitbit' scheme where traffickers use false pretenses to transport victims abroad.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony M. Viado disclosed that based on travel records, the alleged illegal recruiter had previously traveled to Thailand with other passengers who were not her church companions but potential trafficking victims.
The BI also intercepted three female passengers attempting to board a flight to Singapore connecting to Thailand on April 1; upon questioning, these two victims admitted they were recruited for illegal employment in Thailand and their companion was the recruiter.
Meanwhile, the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) has been referred to assist the victims.
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