2 foreigners from Tajikistan captured in counterterror drive in Marawi

Two foreigners from Tajikistan were captured by authorities in Brgy. Lomidong, Marawi City, Lanao del Sur, according to the Philippine National Police (PNP).

"Authorities apprehended two 22-year-old male foreign nationals from Tajikistan inside their rented room following the enforcement of a mission order against undesirable aliens," the PNP said in a statement released on Saturday. 

The PNP said the arrests were made during an implementation of Bureau of Immigration mission order during a counterterrorism operation conducted from 2:35 PM to 4:20 PM on April 17.

The arrested individuals are now under the custody of the Bureau of Immigration for documentation and proper disposition, the PNP said. 

Authorities are also assessing "any potential security implications linked to their presence in the area."

“This operation demonstrates our firm commitment to protecting national security by ensuring that foreign nationals within our borders comply with our laws and do not pose any threat to public safety,” said PNP Chief PGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr.

“Hindi kami papayag na magamit ang ating bansa bilang kanlungan ng sinumang may masamang layunin laban sa kapayapaan at kaayusan,” he added.

(We will not allow our country to be used as a haven for anyone with evil intentions against peace and order.)

“Strong collaboration among law enforcement and security forces remains essential in addressing evolving threats and preventing extremist activities before they escalate,” Nartatez also said. —VAL, GMA News