10/10/2023
PNP Announces Massive Drug Bust: Suspected Shabu Worth PHP 2.2 Billion Seized in Joint Operation
In a press briefing held on October 6, 2023, the Philippine National Police (PNP) revealed the discovery of a colossal stash of suspected shabu, with an estimated street value of PHP 2.2 billion. This significant bust, achieved through the collaborative efforts of multiple law enforcement agencies, deals a severe blow to illegal drug trafficking in the Philippines.
The press briefing was attended by key officials and representatives from various agencies, including PNP Chief, PGEN Benjamin Acorda Jr, USEC Gilbert Cruz, Executive Director of the Presidential Anti Organized Crime Commission, Bureau of Customs Deputy Commissioner for Intelligence, Juvymax Uy, NCRPO Regional Director, PBGEN Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr, Acting PNP DEG Director PCOL Dionisio Bartolome, Manila International Container Terminal (MICT) District Collector, Romeo Allan Rosales, and PDEA-NCR Regional Director, Emerson Rosales.
Prior to the discovery of the illegal drugs, intelligence agents of the PNP received information about a large shipment of illegal drugs. PNP DEG in coordination with the Presidential Anti Organized Crime Commission and PDEA passed this information to the Bureau of Customs.
The operation, which took place on October 5, 2023, is a testament to the coordinated efforts of several law enforcement units.
A staggering 323,184 grams of suspected shabu were intercepted and seized inside Container Freight Station 3 at the Bureau of Customs, Manila International Container Terminal, Isla Puting Bato, Brgy 20 Tondo, Manila. These narcotics were concealed within 450 boxes found inside the container at the customs facility, with seventy of these boxes confirmed to contain the illicit substance.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel discovered 1,109 cling-wrapped packages, each containing white crystalline substance believed to be shabu. The packages were further wrapped in carbon paper and aluminum foil. The estimated street value of this illegal haul is an astonishing PHP 2,197,651,200.00.
The suspect or suspects involved in this massive drug shipment remain at large as the investigation continues.
In a statement, PNP Chief PGen Benjamin Acorda Jr. commended the successful operation, emphasizing the importance of inter-agency collaboration in the fight against illegal drugs. He stated, “This joint interdiction operation is a testament to the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in the fight against illegal drugs. We are determined to bring those responsible to justice and continue our unwavering commitment to protecting our communities from the scourge of illegal narcotics.”
The seized drug evidence will undergo laboratory examination at the PDEA Crime Laboratory as the investigation continues to uncover the circumstances behind the shipment of these illegal drugs. The operation was conducted transparently, with body-worn cameras recording every crucial moment to ensure accountability and adherence to proper procedures.
This joint operation sends a strong message that law enforcement agencies are resolute in their pursuit of eradicating illegal drug activities, safeguarding the nation’s security, and upholding the rule of law. The collaborative efforts of various agencies, as witnessed in this operation, reflect the commitment of the Philippine National Police and its partners to a drug-free Philippines.
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