BI gets anti-terror gear from Australia

The Bureau of Immigration (BI) received a big boost in its campaign against foreign terrorists and illegal aliens after the Australian government donated modern gear and equipment for the agency’s intelligence and surveillance operations.

Immigration Commissioner Alipio Fernandez Jr. formally received the equipment from Australian Ambassador Tony Hely in a turnover ceremony held at the New World Renaissance Hotel in Makati.

The turnover coincided with the graduation of 15 BI intelligence division agents, who attended a training seminar on intelligence work and operations.

Fernandez expressed gratitude for the donation, saying it would enhance the bureau’s capability in going after suspected foreign terrorists and illegal aliens.

BI intelligence chief Faizal Hussin said instructors from the Australian federal police gave lectures on various aspects of intelligence work, including surveillance and operations against suspected international terrorists.

Hussin said the training program and donation were previously discussed at the 1st RP-Australian Consultation on Anti-Terrorism held at the Hyatt Hotel in Pasay City last June 27. Australian officials had promised to help the bureau upgrade its intelligence capability.

As one of the country’s frontline law enforcement agencies, the immigration bureau has been actively involved in the anti-terror drive and is an active member of the anti-terrorism task force.

Some of the suspected foreign terrorists arrested by authorities over the last few years were apprehended on the strength of mission orders issued by Fernandez.

Authorities were able to nab suspected terrorists even without a warrant from the courts since the BI chief can order the arrest of an alien for immigration law violations.