By Ferdinand Patinio
MANILA – The Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Clark seized PHP6.29 million worth of shabu concealed in a shipment declared as water pressure equipment.
In a belated report Tuesday, the BOC said the shipment intercepted over the weekend was from the United States and bound for Taytay, Rizal.
During Customs clearance procedures, it said its X-ray Inspection Project detected suspicious images inside the declared water pressure equipment, prompting authorities to conduct further inspection.
A subsequent K-9 sweep conducted by Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency yielded a positive indication for the possible presence of dangerous drugs.
A 100-percent physical examination led to the discovery of a transparent plastic bag wrapped in duct tape containing 925 grams of suspected shabu.
Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno emphasized the importance of combining modern inspection technology with the expertise and vigilance of Customs personnel.
“Our X-ray machines are a huge help, but the knowledge, skills and vigilance of our Customs officers are equally important. We continue to strengthen their capabilities so they can detect suspicious shipments faster and more effectively,” he said.
A warrant of seizure and detention was issued against the shipment for violations of Section 1113(l)(3), (4), and (5) of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to Republic Act No. 9165, or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002, as amended. (PNA)
