KIDAPAWAN CITY, North Cotabato — A foreign fugitive wanted for multiple child pornography charges was arrested by authorities in a joint operation at Villanueva Subdivision, Barangay Poblacion, Kidapawan City at around 12:25 p.m. on Friday, January 9, 2026.
Police identified the suspect as a 53-year-old German national, known by the alias “Art,” who was temporarily residing in the area. He is facing ten counts of Possession of Child Pornography under Section 163.1(4) of the Criminal Code of Canada.
The arrest was carried out through the combined efforts of the Kidapawan City Police Station, 1st Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), Fugitive Search Unit from Manila, Provincial Intelligence Unit, and the Security Group Eastern Mindanao.
According to police, the operation was conducted following verified intelligence that the foreign national was hiding in Kidapawan City. The suspect was immediately informed of his constitutional rights upon arrest before being brought to the Kidapawan City Police Station for documentation and legal processing.
PLt. Col. Argie Celeste confirmed that the suspect is now under police custody and is expected to be turned over to the Bureau of Immigration for proper disposition and deportation proceedings.
Authorities emphasized that the arrest reflects the Philippine government’s strong commitment to combating transnational crimes, particularly those involving the sexual exploitation of children.
The Philippine National Police reiterated its warning that foreign nationals who commit crimes, especially those involving minors, will be relentlessly pursued and held accountable under the law.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities coordinate with international law enforcement agencies for further legal actions.