BOC seizes over P249-M shabu concealed in LED spotlights

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized an estimated P249.83 million worth of suspected shabu concealed in light-emitting diode (LED) spotlights in a warehouse in Pasay City.

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In a statement on Tuesday, the BOC said that shipment from Mexico was initially flagged using X-ray imaging, which revealed suspicious images.

The BOC said that the Customs Anti-Illegal Drug Task Force and the Enforcement and Security Service conducted an examination on the shipment last April 17.

“The inspection yielded white crystalline substances concealed within the LED spotlights. Subsequent field testing conducted by the examiner in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) confirmed the substances to be Methamphetamine Hydrochloride or shabu, with a total weight of 36,740 grams and an estimated value of ₱249,832,000,” the BOC said in a statement. 

The BOC added that the items are now under the custody of the agency for proper documentation and to be turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

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“Appropriate criminal charges for violations of the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 (Republic Act No. 9165), Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), and other applicable laws will be filed against all persons found responsible, including importers, consignees, and other involved parties,” the BOC added.

BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said that the agency is committed to bar the entry illegal drugs to the country. /gsg