Suspect in Laos drug shipment nabbed

Authorities have arrested the alleged consignee of illegal drugs worth P7.4 million from Laos.

According to the Bureau of Customs (BOC), its agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia), along with Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) personnel, initially seized a parcel containing methamphetamine hydrochloride, or “shabu.”

The suspect, whom the BOC did not identify, is now detained and undergoing custodial investigation of the PDEA for inquest proceedings for alleged violation of the narcotics and customs laws.

Meanwhile, BOC Port of Manila (POM) seized P100 million worth of counterfeit goods after inspecting a warehouse in Pasay City on Wednesday.

Armed with Letters of Authority issued by Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero, the implementing team composed of personnel from the POM-Enforcement and Security Services, POM-Formal Entry Division, Legal Service, and the Philippine Coast Guard inspected the warehouse located on Cuneta Avenue, Pasay City.

Found inside the warehouse were various counterfeit shoes, bags and clothing apparel bearing the brands Gucci, Havaianas, Marvel, Nike, Adidas, among others.

The BOC said investigation is ongoing for the warehouse owner’s possible violation of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (Republic Act No. 8293) and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863). —Tina G. Santos

READ: BOC seizes P20-M worth of cars with consignee previously linked to smuggling