Customs agents at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport confiscated suspected shabu worth P56.6 million concealed in two pieces of luggage during an interdiction operation that led to the arrest of two Filipino women who arrived from Cambodia on May 6. (Photo courtesy of BOC-NAIA via Ariel Fernandez)
Customs agents at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) intercepted ₱56.6 million worth of suspected shabu concealed in coffee packs and luggage, resulting in the arrest of two Filipino women who had arrived from Cambodia during an interdiction operation at Terminal 1 on Wednesday, May 6.
The Bureau of Customs (BOC)-NAIA, in coordination the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and partner law enforcement units, discovered approximately 8,324 grams of white crystalline substance suspected to be methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu, hidden inside improvised pouches lined with carbon paper and packaging tape.
The seized contraband has an estimated value of ₱56,603,200.00.
Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno lauded the vigilance of BOC-NAIA personnel and the Inter-agency Drug Interdiction Task Group, stressing the bureau's commitment to border protection.
“This successful interdiction reflects our strengthened border protection measures and sustained coordination with our partner agencies. We remain firm in our commitment to prevent the entry of illegal drugs and ensure the safety and well-being of the Filipino people,” Nepomuceno said.
The illegal drugs will undergo confirmatory testing at the PDEA Laboratory Service, while inquest proceedings are being prepared against the suspects for violation of Section 4, Article II of Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
District Collector Atty. Yasmin Obillos-Mapa reaffirmed that BOC-NAIA continues to tighten controls and enhance coordination with partner agencies to block drug smuggling at the country's main gateway.