THE Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested the Vietnamese leader of a notorious lending gang operating in Batangas and other areas in Luzon.
The arrested foreigner was identified as Vo Van Tai, 26, who was apprehended by operatives of the BI’s Intelligence Division in Purok Rosal, Poblacion West in the Science City of Munoz, Nueva Ecija, following a mission order issued by BI Commissioner Jaime Morente.
Also arrested were two other cohorts identified as Vo Khac Binh, male, and Vo Thi Mai, female, both 49 years old.
Vo Van reportedly headed a syndicate accused of illegally lending money, and physically injuring or kidnapping those who are unable to pay their debts.
His syndicate’s operations have reportedly transferred to various places in Luzon to evade arrest, and cover up their illegal dealings.
The BI earlier reported the arrest of 8 other gang members, who were caught in Lemery Batangas last April 28.
BI Intelligence Division Chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. reported that during the arrest, Vo Van presented a counterfeit BIR TIN ID bearing an alias. A previous complaint also reported him for having numerous spurious documents to hide his real identity.
Apart from being tagged as undesirable aliens for facilitating the use of fake documents, his two cohorts were also found to be undocumented and overstaying.
The trio were transferred to the BI’s Warden Facility in Bicutan, Taguig City pending deportation proceedings.
Morente lauded the BI’s Intelligence Division for the arrest. “These illegal businessmen are not welcome in the country. They do not follow our laws, and at the same time bring fear and disorder to the community,” said Morente. “We will ensure that once deported, they will not be able to set foot in the country again,” he added.
