BOC-NAIA, PDEA, NAIA-IADITG intercept P25.3M meth, nab Malaysian passenger
IN furtherance of the campaign of the Bureau of Customs (BOC) against illegal drugs, the BOC-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA), in collaboration with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), apprehended a Malaysian traveller, who originated from Madagascar via Addis Ababa through Ethiopian Airlines Flight ET 644, carrying packages of methamphetamine hydrochloride allegedly concealed inside his luggage.
The passenger’s luggage underwent rigorous screening, including x-ray scanning, and a thorough physical examination, which led to the discovery of 3.722 kilograms of methamphetamine concealed inside the luggage lining, with an estimated value of P25,308,600.00 as confirmed by PDEA.
“This apprehension is a product of the strengthened commitment of our officers to protect our borders from the entry of illicit goods. I commend the Port and our partner agencies in this successful interdiction and suppression of drug smuggling,” said Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio.
The arrested passenger will be prosecuted for violation of Republic Act No. 9165, otherwise known as The Comprehensive Drug Act, and Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
Under the leadership of District Collector, Atty. Yasmin O. Mapa, the BOC-NAIA remains steadfast in the performance of the Port’s mandates, especially in protecting the country’s borders. Last September 28, 2023, two Singaporean Nationals were also arrested for carrying P76.1M worth of cocaine from Doha, Qatar.
