Bureau of Immigration
PRESS RELEASE
07 March 2017
Nine BI jail guards sacked
for 2 Korean fugitives’ escape
Nine guards at the Bureau of Immigration (BI) detention center in Bicutan, Taguig City were relieved of their posts following the escape from detention of two Korean fugitives early Monday.
BI Commissioner Jaime Morente said he also directed the sacked jail guards to explain in 72 hours why no administrative and criminal charges should be filed against them in connection with the escape of the two foreign detainees.
The Koreans were identified as Park Wang Yeol, 38, and Jung Jae Yul, 38, who allegedly escaped by forcibly opening the ceiling and rooftop of their detention cell and scaling the fence surrounding the detention facility in Camp Bagong Diwa.
Morente said the incident is now being investigated to determine if any of the guards were involved even as he ordered a massive manhunt for the escapees.
He disclosed that a fact-finding body headed by Atty. Henry Tubban, BI legal officer, was already formed to investigate the jailbreak.
“We also appeal to the public to give us any information on their whereabouts so they can be recaptured and immediately deported to Korea where they are wanted to stand trial for their crimes,” the BI chief added.
"The public may call (02) 465-2400 loc. 213, 226 and (02) 524-37-69 or email us at immigph@gmail.com for any information," Morente further added.
The BI has also sought the help of the Philippine National Police (PNP) in hunting the fugitives.
Aside from assembling several tracker teams to hunt the duo, Morente said he also alerted immigration officers in all the international airports and seaports to apprehend the Koreans if they are spotted attempting to flee the country.
In their report, the jail guards on-duty said they only learned that the detainees had disappeared after another Korean detainee informed them of the escape.
They said they found a blanket and a pillow that the escapees left beside the fence near the main gate of the detention facility.
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