BI nabs Ghanaian for hacking ATMs

MANILA, Philippines — Agents of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) recently arrested in Taguig a Ghanaian national believed to be the leader of a West African ring responsible for hacking automated teller machines.

Victor Patrick, 34, was nabbed during an operation conducted by the BI and Armed Forces of the Philippines at the parking lot of a mall in Bicutan.

BI intelligence division chief Fortunato Manahan Jr. said they hatched the sting against Patrick after confirming his alleged illegal activities.

“The suspect has been seen frequenting banks in Barangay Moonwalk, Parañaque City and other areas,” Manahan said.

BI records showed that Patrick arrived as a tourist in Manila on April 20, 2019.

Immigration Commissioner Norman Tansingco said Patrick would be deported for violating the Philippine Immigration Act.