Foreigners warned against fake BI agents conducting searches, inspections

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) on Thursday warned foreigners and the public against persons who pose as immigration agents conducting unauthorized inspections and operations.

BI commissioner Joel Anthony Viado issued the reminder after receiving reports that some individuals claiming to be BI personnel are approaching foreign nationals.

The suspects allegedly present fraudulent documents that supposedly authorize them to conduct searches, inspections, and immigration checks.

Viado stressed that only duly authorized immigration personnel carrying valid mission orders issued by the BI commissioner are permitted to conduct immigration enforcement operations.

“Foreign nationals and members of the public should exercise caution and verify the identity and authority of individuals claiming to be immigration officers. Legitimate immigration operations are conducted only by authorized BI personnel with properly issued mission orders signed by the commissioner,” he said in a statement.

He said mission orders are official document that cannot be used to harass, intimidate, or extort money from any individual.

Under existing procedures, only lawfully-issued mission orders authorize immigration agents to conduct arrests and enforcement activities against foreigners who are found to have violated immigration laws.

Viado urged the public to immediately coordinate with the BI through its National Operations Center for verification should they encounter fake BI agents.

“We will not tolerate the misuse of the Bureau’s name and authority. Individuals found impersonating immigration officers or using fraudulent documents will face the full force of the law,” he said.

The BI reminded foreigners that legitimate immigration personnel are required to identify themselves and present valid mission orders during official enforcement operations.

The public was also urged to report suspected cases of fraud, impersonation, harassment, or extortion involving individuals falsely claiming to represent the BI. — JMA, GMA News