Law enforcement agencies are investigating a series of large-scale drug smuggling attempts involving foreign travelers, believed to be linked to a broader network trafficking illegal drugs into the Philippines.
On Monday, authorities arrested a South African national at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 and seized 6,000 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, or shabu, valued at P40.8 million.
The operation was led by the Bureau of Customs–NAIA in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group.
The suspect’s carry-on luggage was flagged during X-ray screening and subjected to a full physical inspection. A K9 sweep indicated the presence of illegal drugs.
Authorities later confirmed that the white crystalline substance, concealed inside improvised wooden books wrapped in plastic and carbon paper, tested positive for shabu.
The arrest followed the recent apprehension of a German national at the same terminal for allegedly carrying P55.3 million worth of shabu.
The suspect, who arrived on a connecting flight from Addis Ababa, was flagged after an X-ray Inspection Project operator detected unusual images during non-intrusive baggage screening.
A 100-percent physical inspection uncovered white crystalline substances hidden in a false compartment in the baggage lining and inside two hollowed-out Bible books wrapped in plastic and duct tape.
Authorities are conducting a broader investigation to determine the scope of the smuggling network and identify possible accomplices.
They are also reviewing security footage and cargo manifests to prevent similar incidents and strengthen border control protocols.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the bureau remains committed to curbing smuggling in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to enhance enforcement against illegal drugs.
“These operations underscore our strict profiling and risk assessment measures at the border. We will continue to tighten our controls to ensure that illegal drugs are stopped before they can enter the country,” Nepomuceno said.
The seized drugs and the suspects were turned over to PDEA for proper custody.
NAIA District Collector Maria Yasmin Mapa said authorities will further strengthen inspection and enforcement measures in coordination with partner agencies to prevent airport facilities from being used for drug smuggling and other prohibited items.
