MANILA — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) arrested three Chinese nationals in Santa Cruz, Manila for allegedly running an online cryptocurrency scam targeting investors in Hong Kong.

According to reports submitted to BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado, the arrests took place on November 7, 2025, at a hotel along Tomas Mapua Street.

FSU agents, working with government intelligence forces, apprehended Chen Jinhao, 27, and Yang Chao Wen, 37. Another Chinese national, Yu Sun, 50, was also found at the premises allegedly facilitating the syndicate’s online operations.

Investigations indicated that Chen served as manager overseeing the syndicate’s operations, while Yang acted as supervisor handling day-to-day management. The group reportedly targeted Hong Kong investors through a fictitious cryptocurrency investment scheme from a hotel room in Santa Cruz.

Verification with BI records showed that Chen and Yang were overstaying aliens, and all three suspects could not present valid passports or other immigration documents when requested.

The three suspects were immediately transported to the BI Warden Facility in Bicutan, Taguig City, for booking, documentation, and verification procedures. Deportation proceedings are ongoing.

Viado commended the FSU and its law enforcement partners for their swift action, emphasizing the Bureau’s commitment to protecting the public from scams perpetrated by foreign nationals.

“The Bureau will continue to aggressively pursue foreign nationals who violate Philippine laws, whether through overstaying, scams, or other criminal activities,” Viado said. “No one is above the law.”