MANILA — Operatives from the Bureau of Immigration’s (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) have arrested a Japanese national allegedly linked to the notorious “Luffy” criminal syndicate during a joint operation in Taguig City.

The suspect, identified as Kensuke Kudo, 28, was apprehended at a residential area in coordination with the National Police Agency (NPA) of Japan and the Philippine National Police – Intelligence Group (PNP-IG) last August 1. Kudo is wanted in Tokyo for his involvement in a large-scale fraud operation and was arrested based on existing immigration warrants and derogatory records.

A warrant of arrest was issued by the Tokyo Summary Court in January for theft in violation of the Japanese Penal Code. Japanese authorities reported that Kudo and his accomplices posed as law enforcement officers to deceive elderly victims into surrendering their ATM cards and personal information, which were then used to withdraw large amounts of money.

“The arrest of Kudo is a major step forward in dismantling foreign criminal syndicates exploiting Philippine territory,” said BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado. “President Marcos has made it clear: the Philippines will not be a safe haven for fugitives. We are acting on that directive with resolve.”

Kudo is reportedly among the last active members of the “Luffy” syndicate, a Japan-based criminal network that previously operated out of the Philippines and is believed to have amassed over ¥1 billion through theft, fraud, and cybercrimes. Philippine and Japanese authorities have already dismantled much of the group through a series of joint operations.

Further investigation revealed that Kudo’s Japanese passport expired on October 4, 2024, and he had not applied for renewal, making him an overstaying and undesirable alien. The Japanese Embassy in Manila also classified him as a fugitive posing a threat to public safety and security.

He has been transferred to the BI Warden Facility for booking and documentation, pending deportation proceedings.

“Our close coordination with foreign law enforcement agencies continues to bear results,” Viado added. “This is the kind of international cooperation that protects the integrity of our borders and the safety of our communities.”