The Bureau of Customs-Ninoy Aquino International Airport (BOC-NAIA), in close coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) and the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (NAIA-IADITG), successfully intercepted illegal drugs valued at PhP42.16 million at NAIA Terminal 3, Pasay City, on October 12, 2024.

A South African passenger arriving from Addis Ababa was apprehended for bringing in 6.2 kilograms of Methamphetamine Hydrochloride, commonly known as shabu. The contraband was detected through rigorous screening, including x-ray scanning, K9 inspection, and a thorough physical examination of the passenger’s luggage.

The passenger, along with the seized drugs, were immediately turned over to PDEA for inquest proceedings for violations of Republic Act No. 9165 (Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio emphasized the agency’s unwavering commitment in fighting illegal drug trafficking, stating, “Every successful operation strengthens our resolve to protect the nation from the scourge of illegal drugs.”

District Collector Yasmin O. Mapa also reaffirmed BOC-NAIA’s dedication in securing the country’s borders thru intensified efforts against drug smuggling.

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