2 Filipinos arrested at Naia with P56.6-M shabu — BOC

MANILA, Philippines — Two Filipino passengers were arrested on Wednesday at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (Naia) Terminal 1 for carrying suspected shabu worth P56.6 million, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) said. 

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According to the BOC, Customs authorities seized approximately 8,324 grams of shabu concealed inside two pieces of luggage from two female passengers arriving from Cambodia. The agency did not disclose the identities of the suspects. 

“The illegal substances were packed in improvised pouches made of carbon paper and packaging tape, and further concealed alongside coffee powder, assorted coffee packs, and personal belongings in an apparent attempt to evade detection. The seized contraband has an estimated value of P56,603,200,” the BOC said in a statement. 

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The BOC added that the two individuals will face possible charges for violating Section 4, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. 

The seized illegal drugs will also be turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency to undergo confirmatory examination while inquest proceedings are being prepared.

With this arrest, BOC commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reaffirmed the agency’s commitment “to prevent the entry of illegal drugs and ensure the safety and well-being of the Filipino people.” /das