11 Chinese arrested for illegal mining

October 14, 2024 | 12:00 p.m

MANILA, Philippines – Eleven Chinese nationals allegedly involved in illegal mining were arrested in Paracale, Camarines Norte yesterday morning.

According to PAOCC spokesman Winston John Casio, the suspects were arrested by a joint team of the Presidential Anti-Organized Crime Commission and the Bureau of Immigration (BI) following a raid on a mineral processing plant in Barangay Tugos.

The team was supported by the local police and the military.

Authorities identified the Chinese nationals as Chang Si Ci, Chen Chan Xia, Chen Gui Hua, Jiu Zhong Ren, Li Chun, Liu Wei Mang, Liu Wei Xi, Lou Peng, Shen Yuan Fan, Yu Yun Lai and Zhen Zi Yu.

According to reports, the suspects did not present passports or other documents during the initial check.

BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the foreigners would be deported if they were found to be in the country illegally.

Casio said the raid was part of the PAOCC’s increased efforts against illegal mining and other forms of criminal activity.

“PAOCC, BI and our AFP partner are committed to stopping criminal activities by foreign nationals,” Casio said, referring to the Armed Forces of the Philippines. —Evelyn Macairan