Authorities have arrested a high-ranking Japanese fugitive during a surprise operation at a resort in Angeles City, Pampanga. He is believed to be the leader of one of Japan’s largest criminal syndicates operating in the Philippines.
In a report by John Consulta on 24 Oras, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) Fugitive Search Unit and the Philippine National Police Regional Special Operations Group arrested a 54-year-old Japanese national wanted in Japan for multiple criminal cases.
He was captured during a birthday celebration inside a resort in Angeles. Authorities said he is the alleged “Big Boss” of the J.P. Dragon group, a major Japanese crime syndicate involved in illegal online gambling and telecom fraud operations across Southeast Asia.
The key was his birthday celebration. While they were still eating, they didn’t know they were already being surrounded slowly by B.I.F.S.U. operatives.
"The group has been linked to a network of illicit activities that have victimized countless individuals and laundered millions in criminal proceeds," Atty. Joel Anthony M. Viado, BI Commissioner, said.
Most members of the J.P. Dragon group were reportedly former affiliates of the notorious “Luffy” gang, also involved in transnational crimes.
After the arrest, authorities transported the suspect to the BI office in Manila to ensure the safety of the team.
The Japanese national refused to give a statement.
"The arrest of [Ryuji] Yoshioka means that we have effectively dismantled their base here in the Philippines. His arrest sends a clear message that the Philippines is not a safe refuge for fugitives," Viado added.
BI spokesperson Dana Sandoval said the Japanese national is being held at the Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City while deportation proceedings are ongoing.
“Ngayon po, nakapiit siya sa ating facility inside Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig. Umaandar po ang deportation proceedings laban sa kanya. Ito po ay priority natin kasi alam natin kung gano'ng kaimportante at gano'ng kalaki itong kaso na ito sa bansang Japon,” she said.
