The Bureau of Immigration (BI) in the Philippines has announced the arrest of Ahmed Kamilu Alex, a 35-year-old Nigerian national wanted in the United States for alleged involvement in a cyber fraud scheme.
The arrest occurred on October 11, 2024, on Panay Avenue in Barangay Paligsahan, Quezon City, following Alex’s addition to the immigration blacklist for being a fugitive from justice.
Immigration Commissioner Joel Anthony Viado reported that Alex was apprehended by the BI’s Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) in coordination with US authorities.
According to US officials, Alex and two accomplices reportedly orchestrated a cyber fraud operation during the COVID-19 pandemic, creating fake websites designed to mimic authentic US government agencies.
The suspects allegedly targeted military personnel, charging them between $500 and $48,500 in fraudulent “processing fees” for emergency leave requests through these deceptive websites. The United States has requested Alex’s deportation to face trial for his actions.
Alex is currently held in Immigration custody at Camp Bagong Diwa, Taguig City, pending deportation proceedings.
The BI stated that Alex will remain on the immigration blacklist and be permanently banned from re-entering the Philippines once deported.
