BUREAU of Immigration (BI) operatives arrested an overstaying Jordanian man, who turned out to be Covid-positive.
A report from BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. detailed the arrest of Al Barghouthi Tarek El Abed Darwish, 43, who was arrested in Brgy. San Jose, Baliuag, Bulacan in coordination with Baliuag police.
Al Barghouthi was the subject of a warrant of deportation issued in October, following a summary deportation order against him for overstaying, and for violating the conditions of his stay.
He was arrested in front of his food stall business by operatives of the BI’s Intelligence Division, and was transported to the Chinese General Hospital for swab testing, following standard operating procedures.
“The test yielded positive results, thereby exposing the arresting agents, as well as the legal officers who handled his commitment,” said Manahan.
He was then placed in an isolation area, subject to regular monitoring of the BI’s medical personnel.
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente lauded the professionalism of the arresting agents in handling the situation.
“It was a very difficult situation, knowing that they have been exposed to Covid-19 because of their work,” said Morente. “But we face these risks to ensure that we are able to perform our duties of ridding the country of these illegal aliens,” he added.
Al Barghouthi will be transferred to the BI’s holding facility in Bicutan, Taguig following completion of his isolation period.
metrosundaily
