PNP probes possible links between P1.36-B Manila drug haul, Laos seizure
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief P/Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has ordered an investigation into possible links between international drug trafficking operations in the country following the seizure of P1.36 billion worth of suspected shabu at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) and the interception of P3.5 billion worth of illegal drugs in Laos last month.
The investigation follows President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s directive, through the guidance of Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla, to intensify intelligence-driven supply reduction, strengthen border security, and dismantle international drug networks.
“Our priority is to identify those behind these operations, disrupt their supply routes, and ensure that the Philippines will never become a safe passage for international drug syndicates,” Nartatez said.
About 200 kilograms of suspected methamphetamine hydrochloride were intercepted from a 40-foot shipping container by operatives of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency, Bureau of Customs, and PNP, authorities reported on Wednesday, 4 November.
The drugs were concealed in four packs placed among about 50 boxes declared as containing cardboard. The shipment originated in Laos and passed through Haiphong, Vietnam, and Hong Kong before reaching Manila.
Nartatez said authorities are also investigating the consignee to determine whether the shipment was part of a wider international drug trafficking operation.
The discovery followed the interception of 521 kilograms of suspected shabu worth approximately P3.54 billion aboard a private aircraft reportedly bound for Manila at Luang Prabang International Airport in Laos on 1 October.
Nartatez said the PNP is strengthening surveillance and intelligence-sharing with domestic and foreign law enforcement counterparts to detect and intercept shipments moving through international trade routes.
“We are examining these major seizures beyond their individual circumstances to determine whether they point to a common drug trafficking network operating across borders,” he said.