BI arrests Japanese national with 3 pending cases

MANILA, Philippines — A Japanese national wanted by his government for embezzlement has been arrested by Philippine authorities in Pasay city.

Bureau of Immigration Fugitive Search Unit Chief Bobby Raquepo said on Monday that apart from the embezzlement case, Fuminori Sato was also wanted as an illegal alien in the country.

According to Japanese records, Sato was asked by a compatriot to keep her bank book back in 2012. However, Sato took advantage of this and reportedly withdrew a total of ¥200,000 (P100,000) for his personal use.

Sato, 37, was arrested in his hotel room last Thursday based on a complaint filed against him for violating the Republic Act 9262 or anti-violence against women and children.

But he was released after posting bail following the issuance of a mission order from Immigration Chief Jaime Morente.

The mission order stemmed from the request of Japanese authorities who informed the agency that Sato is also wanted for embezzlement and that an arrest warrant was issued against him by a Japanese court.

“We had to be very discreet as there was a threat that he would destroy the evidence against him if he knew of the arrest,” Raquepo said in a statement.

The agency’s investigation also showed that Sato fled Japan on December 4, 2013 and entered the Philippines as a tourist, but he failed to extend his stay.

Sato’s passport was also reportedly expired for two years and was never renewed.

With these three cases against Sato, Raquepo said the foreigner will be deported soon and will be put on a blacklist to prevent him from re-entering the country. (Editor: Eden Estopace)