MANILA – A South Korean fugitive who escaped custody last March 4 has been rearrested, along with his accomplice, in Pampanga.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) announced on Sunday (09 Mar 2025) that Na Ikhyeon was located in a residential area in Barangay Pampang, Angeles City. His cohort, Kang Changbeom, was also apprehended during the operation.
In a press conference, BI Commissioner Joel Viado confirmed the arrests took place early Sunday morning.
Kang is believed to have assisted Na in his escape, as evidenced by CCTV footage and intelligence reports. Further investigation by the Korean National Police Agency revealed that Kang is also a wanted fugitive in South Korea for fraud.
Both suspects will be transferred to the BI detention facility at Camp Bagong Diwa in Taguig City. Due to their escape attempt, they will now be considered high-risk detainees, and “special arrangements” will be made for their security.
Additionally, three BI employees who assisted Na’s escape have been terminated.
ia/mnm