In line with the intensified campaign against illegal drugs, joint forces under the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG) intercepted two South African passengers for allegedly smuggling ?97,892,800 worth of illegal drugs at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) early Friday morning.
At around 1 a.m., an X-ray operator at the international arrivals area flagged the luggage of the two passengers due to suspicious items. This prompted the operator to notify the NAIA-IADITG for further inspection.
Upon manual inspection, authorities discovered over 14 kilograms of methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as “shabu” concealed in various items, including handbags, packs of potato chips and biscuits, the compartment of a book and improvised pouches.
Initial field tests conducted by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) confirmed the presence of methamphetamine hydrochloride. The seized evidence has been sent to the PDEA laboratory for confirmatory testing following the proper inventory process.
The suspects were immediately arrested and are now under the custody of PDEA, where charges will be filed against them under Republic Act 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PBGen Christopher M Abecia lauded the NAIA-IADITG for their vigilance and dedication to combating drug smuggling at the Philippines’ largest international gateway.
“This operation is a testament to the commitment of our task force in protecting our borders and ensuring the safety of the public,” PBGen Abecia said.
