Security or legal Asia Currimao · 22 November 2025
Interpol-Wanted Taiwanese Passenger Arrested on Star Navigator – 22 November 2025
What happened
On 22 November 2025, Philippine authorities arrested a 54-year-old Taiwanese national aboard Star Cruises' Star Navigator at the Port of Currimao, Ilocos Norte, after the vessel arrived inbound from Kaohsiung. The suspect, identified as Tsai Chin Hao, was confirmed to be the subject of an Interpol Red Notice and an active arrest warrant issued by U.S. authorities.
The Bureau of Immigration (BI) boarded the vessel following an advance match alert via Interpol databases and verified the Red Notice before authorizing the arrest. Tsai was detained without incident and handed over to the BI Fugitive Search Unit for processing. The arrest did not disrupt cruise operations, and the ship continued its itinerary as scheduled.
Details of the arrest
BI officers received an advance match alert via Interpol databases as the Star Navigator was inbound to port. The agency's Interpol Coordination Unit verified the Red Notice and the active U.S. warrant before authorizing the arrest. Tsai was detained onboard without incident and subsequently handed over to the BI Fugitive Search Unit at the Port of Currimao, where he underwent standard processing including biometric capture, interview, and custody transfer.
Casualties
Fatalities
- None reported.
Injuries
- None reported.
Rescued
- Not applicable — arrest of fugitive suspect.
Emergency response and enforcement
The Bureau of Immigration coordinated with Interpol databases to identify and verify the suspect's status before boarding. BI officers conducted the arrest in coordination with port authorities at Currimao. The incident demonstrates the integration of real-time Interpol systems with maritime port security and immigration screening protocols.
Current status
Tsai is in custody of the BI Fugitive Search Unit and undergoing deportation proceedings in compliance with Philippine national regulations and Interpol procedures. He is expected to be removed from the Philippines unless the United States formally requests extradition or custody transfer. Authorities have not released further details on the criminal allegations linked to the Red Notice. The Star Navigator continued its itinerary as scheduled following the arrest.