THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) has launched an active manhunt for a Jordanian man when he disappeared after his court hearing.
The Jordanian was identified as Tarek Nihad Siam, 47, who was initially apprehended in 2022 after he was turned over to the BI by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI).
He was taken into custody after he was arrested for local violations involving gun possession and physical injuries.
Information later received by the Bureau from the Interpol NCB Manila stated that Siam is wanted in Abu Dhabi for assault and alcohol abuse.
Explanations submitted by Siam’s escorts state that Siam was transported to the Regional Trial Court Branch 237 in Makati City last January 16 where he faces a case on violation of the comprehensive law on firearms and ammunition.
The hearing ended at around noon and upon exiting the courthouse, Siam reportedly requested to use the restroom. He was allowed to use the toilet and was guarded by the BI agent at the door.
After a while, the agent said that he noticed Siam’s prolonged use of the facilities, which prompted him to force open the door to discover that Siam has disappeared, apparently abusing a small window in the restroom. Said report from his escorts are now being investigated and validated if true.
A manhunt was immediately ordered by BI Commissioner Norman Tansingco, who instructed tracker teams to locate and arrest Siam.
The BI said that it has coordinated with local authorities who vowed to also be on the lookout for the Jordanian.
The two job order personnel guarding Siam have been terminated from service, while the team leader who is an organic employee, is facing raps following the incident.
Tansingco said he has also ordered the filing of criminal charges against the 3 employees for infidelity of custody of the PDL.
He further warned that anyone caught assisting Siam can face charges for violating the Philippine immigration law by harboring an illegal alien.
The BI said that information on his whereabouts can be reported to the Commissioner’s Hotline using messenger at Immigration PH 24/7 Helpline.
