GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Authorities have arrested three Pakistani nationals in a joint operation targeting illegal foreign employment, the Bureau of Immigration (BI) confirmed.
Operatives from the BI’s Intelligence Division–Mindanao Intelligence Task Group, in coordination with the Philippine Army and the General Santos City Police Office, carried out the operation in Barangay Sinawal, leading to the apprehension of the foreign nationals for alleged violations of immigration laws.
Two of the suspects, identified as Arslan Ali and Suleman Ali, were arrested at a surplus vehicle display center located along Apopong National Highway. Authorities said the pair had been operating a business and working in the country without the required employment visas.
Initial investigation revealed that Arslan Ali had been overstaying in the Philippines for nearly five years and is already facing a pending deportation case. Meanwhile, Suleman Ali was found to be holding only a tourist visa despite actively engaging in unauthorized employment.
A third suspect, Mudassar Miraj, was also taken into custody. Immigration records showed that his work visa expired in February 2026. Authorities noted that while Miraj reportedly has a pending application for visa extension, verification of his status remains ongoing.
The three individuals are facing charges for violating the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940, particularly provisions related to overstaying and illegal employment of foreign nationals.
The BI emphasized that the arrests form part of a broader campaign to intensify enforcement against foreigners who violate Philippine immigration laws. The agency underscored the government’s commitment to protecting local workers and ensuring the integrity of the country’s immigration system.
Further proceedings, including deportation processes, are expected as authorities continue to assess the full extent of the violations committed by the suspects.