Aviation police denies detaining U.S. citizen over 'tanim bala'

The Philippine National Police - Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) has denied claims that a United States citizen was detained for 48 hours at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) over a rusted bullet.

The allegation came from a social media post by “Austin Baker Travels” on Monday, which claimed that a U.S. citizen had been detained due to a single rusted bullet.

“A U.S.-born citizen has just become the latest victim of Tanim Bala at NAIA. This happened within the last 48 hours. He was about to board his flight back to the U.S. when airport authorities claimed they found one rusted bullet in his luggage — something he insists was planted,” the post read.

On the evening of the same day, PNP-AVSEGROUP clarified that no such incident occurred at NAIA within the timeframe mentioned. However, they confirmed a similar incident at the Clark International Airport in Pampanga last Thursday, 10 July, involving an American citizen.

Authorities said the individual was arrested after being found in possession of a magazine loaded with 12 rounds of 9mm ammunition without proper documentation.

“The arrested suspect underwent inquest proceedings on Thursday and remains in custody at the Clark International Airport Police Station - Aviation Security Unit 3, with charges filed under RA 10951,” the statement read.

The police unit also emphasized that it does not engage in or tolerate any form of extortion, misconduct, or illegal activities against passengers.