Authorities have arrested two Tajikistan nationals in Marawi City by virtue of a Bureau of Immigration (BI) mission order against undesirable aliens.

It was not disclosed what the two did, exactly, only that they were arrested in line with the country’s counterterror drive.

Police said the two foreigners, both 22 years old, were arrested inside their rented room in Barangay Lomidong.

The two are now under the custody of BI for proper disposition, while authorities continue to assess 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,” PNP Chief, Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., said.

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

Nartatez also emphasized that strong collaboration among law enforcement and security forces are essential in addressing evolving threats and preventing extremist activities before they escalate.

“Patuloy kaming kikilos upang matiyak na ang bawat komunidad ay ligtas at napapanatili ang kaayusan,” Nartatez said.