By Richel V. Umel
Contributor
A Jordanian whose business establishment reportedly appeared on records connected to suspects in the December 2025 terrorist attack in Sydney, Australia was arrested Monday morning, March 2, in Pagadian City for immigration violations.
The arrest occurred around 8:30 am on March 2 in a joint operation led by the Bureau of Immigration and the Philippine National Police, with support from the Philippine Army under the 1st Infantry Division and Joint Task Force Zampelan.
In a statement, the 1st Infantry Division, headed by Major Gen. Yegor Rey P. Barroquillo Jr., said authorities implemented Bureau of Immigration Mission Order No. 080 against Mohammad Odeh Saleh Odeh, 65, for alleged violations of Section 37(a)(7) of the Philippine Immigration Act of 1940.
The BI cited overstaying and engaging in business without the proper visa or permit as grounds for his apprehension.
Odeh was arrested at his business establishment in Pagadian City and placed in custody for documentation and further legal proceedings in accordance with immigration laws.
Security review
Authorities said the operation followed a security review by Joint Task Force Zampelan after information from partner security channels indicated that a business establishment associated with Odeh appeared in records linked to individuals suspected in the December 14, 2025 attack near Bondi Beach in Sydney, Australia.
The incident, which occurred during a Jewish community event known as “Chanukah by the Sea,” was classified by Australian authorities as a terrorist attack.
Philippine security agencies identified Odeh as a person of interest for further review, prompting coordination among concerned agencies and action on his immigration status.
Immigration records
A review of immigration records showed that from 2014 to 2025, Odeh frequently traveled between Jordan, Saudi Arabia, Australia, Indonesia, the United Arab Emirates, Qatar, and Malaysia.
Records indicate he obtained a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) in 2023 valid until March 2025. However, authorities said he remained in the Philippines about 10 months beyond the visa’s expiration, resulting in immigration violations.
No terror link established
Authorities clarified that initial investigations have not established Odeh’s direct involvement in terrorist activities.
They added that coordination with national and international counterparts will continue to assess any potential security concerns.
Officials also underscored the inter-agency coordination among the Bureau of Immigration, the PNP, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines in addressing possible transnational security issues.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to enforcing immigration laws and safeguarding national security.
Meanwhile, reactions surfaced on the Army's social media posts indicating that Odeh reportedly owned an “ukay-ukay” (used clothing) store along the Tubod highway in Iligan City.
