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SUSPECTED ILLEGAL RECRUITER ARRESTED AT NAIA, IMMIGRATION OFFICER CHARGED FOR FACILITATING VICTIM’S EXIT

admin October 14, 2025

THE National Bureau of Investigation-International Airport Investigation Division (NBI-IAID) under the leadership of NBI Director Judge Jaime B. Santiago on Saturday arrested a man in Pasay City for alleged illegal recruitment and human trafficking.

Suspect Abdullah Taher Asnawi, together with a 20-year- old woman, was intercepted at NAIA Terminal I by immigration officers.

The duo were bound for Saudi Arabia but were prevented to leave the country as their names were included in the active OFL (Offloading) record, with the instruction to refer them to IPROBES for strict assessment.

Investigation disclosed that the suspect recruited the 20-year old woman despite the latter being not allowed to work in Saudi Arabia due to age requirement.

According to NBI, Asnawi suggested to use an Umrah Visa.

The NBI said Asnawi and the woman were initially cleared for departure by immigration officer Fadrogani but were later flagged down.

Verification with the Licensing and Regulations Bureau of the Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) revealed that Asnawi s not licensed nor authorized to recruit workers for overseas employment.

The NBi said Asnawi committed the crime of trafficking by recruiting, transporting, and facilitating travel by means of fraud or deception, and took advantage of the victim’s financial vulnerability for the purpose of labor exploitation.

The suspect was immediately placed under arrest. He was apprised of his constitutional rights and underwent the standard operating procedure.

Asnawi was presented for inquest proceedings before the Inquest Prosecutor of Pasay City for violation of Republic Act 9208 (Anti-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2003) as amended, R.A. 8042 (Migrant Workers and Overseas Filipinos Act of 1995) as amended by R.A. 10022. He was thereafter turned over to the NBI Detention Center in Muntinlupa.

Meanwhile, the immigration officer, who is currently at-large, has been recommended for prosecution for violation of Section 5(e) of R.A. 9208, as amended, for allowing, clearing, and facilitating the exit from the country of the victim without valid working permits or documents.