BI: Heads will roll over Korean fugitive’s escape

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration yesterday ordered the preventive suspension of BI personnel involved in the escape of a South Korean fugitive after attending a court hearing in Quezon City.

Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said BI officers are being investigated for the escape of 28-year-old Na Ikhyeon.

“Heads will roll if the probe confirms their involvement in the fugitive’s escape. This is a direct and undeniable breach of duty,” Viado said. “We will not tolerate negligence, corruption or collusion within our ranks.”

Aside from administrative cases, those involved in the escape of Na will face criminal charges for infidelity in the custody of a prisoner, according to Viado.

On March 4, Na escaped after attending a hearing on estafa case filed against him before the Quezon City prosecutor’s office.

Police said Na escaped at around 2 p.m., but BI officials reported the incident at 5 p.m.

Na reportedly escaped through the lavatory.

“We are investigating if his lawyer has knowledge about this seemingly pre-planned escape,” Viado said.

The BI has formed a tracker team to recapture Na.

Na is wanted in South Korea for alleged involvement in deceptive investments. He was nabbed in May 2023 at the Clark International Airport.