75 Chinese Nationals Deported for Love and Cryptocurrency Scams Targeting Westerners
In a significant crackdown on organized crime, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) has reported the deportation of 75 Chinese nationals suspected of engaging in love and cryptocurrency scams targeting Westerners. This operation, carried out in coordination with the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission (PAOCC) and the Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking (IACAT) member agencies, marks a major milestone in the fight against fraudulent activities committed by foreigners in the Philippines.
According to BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco, the deported individuals were part of a syndicate that masqueraded as an online gaming customer relations service. However, their true intentions were soon uncovered—luring international users into various fraudulent schemes. To apprehend these individuals, the BI collaborated closely with other agencies, demonstrating the importance of unity in achieving greater results, as mandated by President Rodrigo Duterte.
While 75 individuals have already been deported, the BI highlighted that an additional 70 foreign nationals connected to the operation are still awaiting their deportation. This highlights the commitment of the bureau to continue its intensified collaboration, ensuring that those engaging in illegal activities in the country are brought to justice.
In an unrelated case, Commissioner Tansingco has raised alarm bells regarding double trafficking incidents. These incidents involve victims who are first deceived by false promises and then forced to participate in scamming syndicates. Recently, a Filipino victim was repatriated from Myanmar after being illegally recruited via Facebook. Initially, the victim was promised a salary of up to PHP100,000 per month, but in reality, he was coerced to work as a love scammer for cryptocurrency accounts, receiving a far lower wage than initially agreed upon.
The victim’s recruiter deducted PHP20,000 from his salary, under the guise of travel expenses. Over a period of six months, he only received PHP60,000 per month, far from what he had been promised. Shockingly, to secure his release, the victim had to raise PHP200,000 to fulfill the illicit demands of his employer.
To combat such heinous acts, Commissioner Tansingco called upon aspiring overseas Filipino workers to be vigilant when dealing with online recruiters offering enticing yet illegal travel procedures for jobs abroad. It is crucial to recognize and avoid falling victim to these deceptive practices that can rob individuals of their rights and well-being.
The fight against scams targeting Westerners and illegal employment practices continues to be a priority for the Philippines. The recent deportation of 75 Chinese nationals responsible for love and cryptocurrency scams marks a significant victory in this ongoing battle. Moving forward, the Bureau of Immigration remains committed to collaborating with other agencies and cracking down on all forms of organized crime to maintain law and order in the country.
