DAVAO CITY — Operatives of the Bureau of Immigration (BI) arrested on Thursday, March 11, an American fugitive wanted in his homeland for violations of his probation.
American national Richard Edward Vukelic, 57, was arrested in Davao City in a joint operation between the BI Fugitive Search Unit (FSU) and BI Mindanao Task Group (MITG).
Immigration Commissioner Jaime Morente, in a press statement said he immediately issued a Mission Order for the American’s arrest upon learning of his crimes.
The BI earlier received official communication from US authorities stating that Vukelic is wanted in the US for violating his probation.
He faces cases for driving under the influence and illegal discharge of firearms in violation of US Penal Law in the State of Arizona.
Documents obtained from BI MITG Head Melody Gonzales and BI FSU Chief Bobby Raquepo reveal that Vukelic was the subject of a week-long surveillance by the BI, in coordination with National Bureau of Investigation Region 11.
“When we confirmed that it was indeed him, we immediately implemented his arrest,” said Gonzales.
Vukelic is temporarily detained at the BI’s detention facility in Davao pending his deportation.
