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On the evening of February 18, a coordinated raid was conducted by the Bureau of Immigration (BI), the Philippine National Police Anti-Kidnapping Group (PNP-AKG), and the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) in Barangay Pampang. The operation targeted three Japanese nationals, Oi Riho, Moriyama Yu, and Kato Hiroaki, and a Chinese national named Wang Xinyu, due to their alleged involvement in a telecommunications scam and kidnapping activities.

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The raid was initiated following information from the Embassy of Japan regarding the suspects' criminal activities. During the operation, two Japanese women were apprehended while walking a dog, and two men attempted to flee in a vehicle but were caught. None of the foreigners produced passports or valid documents upon inspection.

During a custodial investigation attended by representatives from the Embassy of Japan, the suspects denied involvement in kidnapping or extortion. However, they admitted to operating an online gaming and telecommunications scam hub in Angeles City. Intelligence reports identified Wang Xinyu as the leader responsible for logistics and training personnel for the scam operations.

The BI reported that the four individuals face charges of overstaying, being undocumented, classified as “undesirable aliens,” and harboring undocumented aliens. Authorities assured that the rights of the foreigners were explained in a language they could easily understand. They are currently detained at the BI Warden Facility in Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, awaiting inquest proceedings.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to enforcing strict measures against transnational crimes in the country. The BI and PAOCC continue to warn that a firm approach will be taken in dealing with such criminal activities, reported SMNI News.

Key Takeaways

• Four foreign nationals were arrested for alleged scam operations in the Philippines.

• The raid followed an alert from the Embassy of Japan about their activities.

• Authorities stress a strict stance against international criminal activities.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · SMNI News · 23 Feb 2026

13 hours ago, snoop1130 said:

they admitted to operating an online gaming and telecommunications scam hub in Angeles City

Scams in Angeles City! Who would ever imagine such a thing?