Dismissed Mayor Alice L. Guo of Bamban, Tarlac has been arrested in Indonesia, the Department of Justice (DOJ) confirmed on Wednesday, Sept. 4.
"The arrest of Alice Guo is a testament to the tireless efforts of our law enforcement agencies and the strength of international cooperation in bringing fugitives to justice,” said DOJ Secretary Jesus Crispin C. Remulla in a statement.
“We will ensure that all legal processes are followed to hold her accountable for any crimes committed,” he assured.
The DOJ said it will "coordinate closely with Indonesian authorities to facilitate the necessary legal procedures.”
It said that Guo, also known as Guo Hua Ping, was arrested in Tangerang City.
Quoting Senior Superintendent Audie Latuheru of the Indonesian Police, the DOJ said that Guo was apprehended at 11:58 p.m. on Sept. 3, 2024.
This development has been verified by our counterparts in Immigration, who have confirmed that Ms. Guo is currently in the custody of the Indonesian Police at Jatanras Mabes Polri, the DOJ said.
Guo, who has been linked to the criminal activities to Philippine Offshore Gaming Operators (POGOs), managed to sneak out of the country back in July despite the arrest order issued by the Senate and her inclusion in the Immigration Lookout Bulletin Order (ILBO).
The dismissed mayor is facing multiple charges before the DOJ including qualified trafficking in persons, tax evasion and money laundering.