THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has seized P101 million worth of dried marijuana leaves shipped from Thailand.
BOC intelligence director Juvymax Uy said they received information regarding the contraband and promptly ordered it to be held upon arrival at the Manila International Container Port on instructions by Commissioner Bienvenidor Rubio.
On Tuesday, a thorough examination of five out of 136 balikbayan boxes was conducted, revealing approximately 72,178 grams of dried marijuana leaves with an estimated street value of P101 million.
“The shipment, consisting of 136 balikbayan boxes, was initially declared to contain personal effects and household goods from Thailand. However, even before it arrived in Manila, the BOC had already verified intelligence information it might contain illegal drugs and other suspicious items.
BOC intelligence chief Verne Enciso reported that the five boxes inspected on Tuesday were declared as beauty products, assorted shoes, and dresses.
“Upon inspection, we discovered that all five balikbayan boxes contained several sealed plastic pouches filled with what appeared to be dried leaves. We are currently in the process of inspecting and inventorying the remaining balikbayan boxes,” Enciso said.
The five balikbayan boxes each held138 heat-sealed transparent plastic bags, weighing an estimated 72,178 grams of suspected “kush” or dried marijuana leaves.
Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) agents have taken samples of the suspected marijuana for further testing at their laboratory.
The consignees, senders, and recipients of the shipment will face charges under Customs law for violating Section 118 (prohibited importation and exportation), Section 1400 (misdeclaration) of the goods declaration, and Section 1113 (property subject to seizure and forfeiture) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA) as well as Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002).