Authorities investigate alleged theft at Naia 3 after Taiwanese loses P140K

The facade of the NAIA Terminal 3, which is just across from Resorts World Manila in Pasay City

The Office for Transportation Security (OTS) and the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) are conducting an investigation following the complaint of Taiwanese passenger Chen Chun Shu over his loss of US$$2,600 (P140,000) last Aug. 30, Thursday.

In a statement, the OTS reported that Cheng lost the amount at the security screening checkpoint of the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 3. They identified Security Screening Officers (SSO) Nievel Gorpe and Reinelle Alvarez as the baggage inspectors at the time of the incident.

Initial investigation showed SSO Gorpe violating the standard operating procedure “when he searched the passenger’s bag for potential prohibited item without the passenger’s presence, which puts more weight to the claim.”

“We cannot tolerate corruption, in as much as we cannot stand having these kinds of people entrusted with the security of the riding public,” OTS Administrator Usec. Arturo Evangelista said.

“They shall be sent straight to prison and there will be a day of reckoning for those who intend to do same.”

Thus far, criminal charges have been filed against SSO Gorpe. Meanwhile, further investigation by authorities is ongoing to identify the others who may also be involved in the theft.  /ra

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