NBI warns OFWs: Drug syndicates lure ‘drug mules’ through social media

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MANILA, Philippines — The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) warned overseas Filipino workers on Monday to be wary of the “work abroad scheme” posted on social media after the arrest of three Filipinos bound for Thailand carrying over 3.297 kilos or roughly P16-million worth of cocaine.

The NBI arrested Ma. Clara Q. Bedico, Alvin J. Avila, and Antonette R.Mendiola last March 28. Bedico and Avila were reportedly waiting for their flight to Thailand when the NBI apprehended them.

NBI Deputy Director Eric Distor said drug syndicates again resorted to an old modus recruiting Filipinos to be couriers through a “work abroad scheme” posted on Facebook.

“Warning po namin sa mga OFW beware of this enticement (We are warning OFWs to be aware of this enticement). Ipo-post sa (It will be posted on) Facebook and they will entice the OFW to transport jewelries kunyari yun pala may palamang drugs (but they usually contain drugs),” NBI-Special Action Unit Chief Emeterio Dongallo Jr. added.

Deputy Director Vicente De Guzman said the Western African Drug Syndicate (WADS) uses their Filipina partners to recruit potential drug mules.

The NBI said it was Mendiola who recruited Bedico and Avila to deliver children’s books to Thailand.

The three were arrested at a fast food chain near the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia).

READ: NBI seizes over 3 kilos of cocaine hidden in children’s books

The cocaine was brought to the Philippines from Brazil. The NBI said it will be repacked and be delivered to Thailand where the price of cocaine is higher. /ee