Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported on Wednesday the arrest of three Chinese nationals involved in alleged online scamming and money laundering activities during an enforcement operation in Angeles City, Pampanga: The BI said those arrested were identified as Zhang Zheng, 42; Ren Yi, 28; and Zhang Shengjun, 31, who were reportedly caught in the act of operating computer equipment allegedly used for fraudulent online schemes targeting foreign victims.

According to Philippines News Agency, the individuals were arrested by operatives from the BI's Fugitive Search Unit, in coordination with the National Bureau of Investigation-Organized and Transnational Crimes Division, on April 27 at a residential property inside the Pulu Amsic Subdivision in Angeles City. The operation was initiated following intelligence information provided by the NBI, indicating that the suspects were part of so-called 'breakaway' scam hubs. These groups are believed to comprise former Philippine offshore gaming operator (POGO) workers who have resumed illegal activities in residential areas to evade authorities.

The bureau revealed that initial verification showed discrepancies in the immigration status of the suspects. While one of the individuals holds a valid working visa, another has an expired visa, and the third is a permanent resident. Moreover, all three failed to present their passports or any valid immigration documents at the time of arrest.

Currently, the suspects are detained at the BI Warden Facility and are facing deportation proceedings.