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Advocates Philippines
Bureau Of Immigration Launches Surprise Raids After Phone Smuggling Claims
FILE
MUNTINLUPA, Philippines — The Bureau of Immigration (BI) carried out back-to-back raids on Friday afternoon at its detention facilities in Taguig and Muntinlupa, following fresh allegations that detainees were able to use mobile phones while in custody.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the surprise inspections were prompted by statements from deported Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who claimed he had access to a cellphone during his detention. Although the alleged incident reportedly happened sometime in June or July, Viado said the new information warranted another large-scale shakedown.
According to the BI chief, the operation is part of the agency’s ongoing effort to keep its facilities free from drugs and other illegal items, and to make sure no detainee receives special treatment.
The raids were led by the BI’s intelligence division, with assistance from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). Authorities conducted a thorough search of all rooms, quarters, and common areas, confiscating unauthorized cash, cellphones, gadgets, electronic devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, knives and other sharp objects, as well as gambling cards and related paraphernalia.
Earlier, the BI disclosed that Zdorovetskiy’s companion, foreign national Malik Dejoun Okojie, was allegedly involved in smuggling mobile phones into the facility with the help of his Filipina wife.
Viado confirmed that personnel found linked to the smuggling have already been punished. Three individuals have been dismissed so far: one contractual agent was terminated, while one officer and one staff member were relieved from duty pending investigation.
“More will follow,” Viado said. “We will not tolerate incompetence or corruption, and we will treat this matter with utmost importance. We will ensure that those who are remiss of their duties will face the harshest consequences.”
While the BI warden facility is not a jail but a temporary holding area for foreigners awaiting deportation, the use of gadgets remains strictly regulated. Management clarified that mobile phones are only allowed for contacting family members, embassies, or legal counsel.
Viado also revealed that he is considering revoking cellphone privileges altogether in both facilities, replacing them with landlines and video call booths.
“Pag umaabuso, kailangan gawan ng aksyon agad,” Viado said, adding that criminal charges will be filed against any personnel found to be helping smuggle unauthorized items into the facilities.
BI Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado said the surprise inspections were prompted by statements from deported Russian vlogger Vitaly Zdorovetskiy, who claimed he had access to a cellphone during his detention. Although the alleged incident reportedly happened sometime in June or July, Viado said the new information warranted another large-scale shakedown.
According to the BI chief, the operation is part of the agency’s ongoing effort to keep its facilities free from drugs and other illegal items, and to make sure no detainee receives special treatment.
The raids were led by the BI’s intelligence division, with assistance from the National Capital Region Police Office (NCRPO) and the Bureau of Corrections (BuCor). Authorities conducted a thorough search of all rooms, quarters, and common areas, confiscating unauthorized cash, cellphones, gadgets, electronic devices, cigarettes and e-cigarettes, knives and other sharp objects, as well as gambling cards and related paraphernalia.
Earlier, the BI disclosed that Zdorovetskiy’s companion, foreign national Malik Dejoun Okojie, was allegedly involved in smuggling mobile phones into the facility with the help of his Filipina wife.
Viado confirmed that personnel found linked to the smuggling have already been punished. Three individuals have been dismissed so far: one contractual agent was terminated, while one officer and one staff member were relieved from duty pending investigation.
“More will follow,” Viado said. “We will not tolerate incompetence or corruption, and we will treat this matter with utmost importance. We will ensure that those who are remiss of their duties will face the harshest consequences.”
While the BI warden facility is not a jail but a temporary holding area for foreigners awaiting deportation, the use of gadgets remains strictly regulated. Management clarified that mobile phones are only allowed for contacting family members, embassies, or legal counsel.
Viado also revealed that he is considering revoking cellphone privileges altogether in both facilities, replacing them with landlines and video call booths.
“Pag umaabuso, kailangan gawan ng aksyon agad,” Viado said, adding that criminal charges will be filed against any personnel found to be helping smuggle unauthorized items into the facilities.
Jan 25, 2026
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