Manila: The Bureau of Immigration (BI) reported the arrest of a Japanese woman suspected of being a member of the infamous "Luffy" gang, linked to theft and fraud in Japan.

According to Philippines News Agency, Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado announced in a press release that the BI's fugitive search unit (FSU) apprehended 33-year-old Natsuki Kimura along Ayala Avenue in Makati City on Friday. Her arrest was based on a deportation order issued in March 2023.

Kimura is among several 'Luffy' gang members who have been apprehended by the bureau following reports from the Japanese government about their presence in the country. Commissioner Viado stated, "She will be deported, blacklisted, and banned from re-entering the Philippines."

BI-FSU chief Rendel Ryan Sy provided further details, stating that Kimura is wanted in Japan for theft, where she is accused of posing as a police officer to steal ATM cards. Reports suggest she allegedly operated as a telephone operator for the syndicate's international scams.

Currently, Kimura is detained at the BI warden facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, as she awaits deportation.