AUTHORITIES at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 1 have apprehended a Malaysian national for allegedly attempting to smuggle approximately P102 million worth of methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, into the country.
The illicit drugs were discovered concealed within chopping boards, a novel method of concealment that was detected through vigilant screening by the Bureau of Customs (BOC). The incident highlights the persistent efforts of drug syndicates to exploit international travel routes for their illegal activities.
The BOC reported that suspicious anomalies detected in the baggage scans prompted a thorough 100% physical examination of the luggage. This meticulous inspection led to the discovery of approximately 15,024 grams of shabu ingeniously hidden inside two boxes declared as chopping boards.
The total estimated value of the seized narcotics amounts to a staggering P102,163,200, representing a significant blow to drug trafficking operations targeting the Philippines. The identity of the Malaysian passenger has not yet been disclosed pending further investigation.
Following the discovery, the passenger was immediately apprehended by customs officials and subsequently turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for inquest proceedings.
Charges are being prepared against the individual for violations of Republic Act No. 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, and Republic Act No. 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. This swift action underscores the strong inter-agency cooperation between the BOC and PDEA in combating the illegal drug trade.
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reaffirmed the bureau’s constant dedication to preventing the entry of illegal drugs into the Philippines. He emphasized that the agency remains resolute in enhancing its intelligence-driven operations and inter-agency coordination efforts.
These measures are crucial for safeguarding the nation’s borders and protecting the Filipino populace from the pervasive dangers posed by illegal narcotics. The successful interception serves as a testament to the effectiveness of the BOC’s enhanced vigilance and its dedication to national security.
