In a significant drug bust, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) at the Port of Clark successfully intercepted a shipment containing PHP10.2 million worth of shabu. The drugs were cleverly hidden within four aluminum tubes, which were part of a shipment declared as a ‘Black Vinyl Window Made Out of PVC’ from the United States.
The seizure occurred on January 20, 2025, following a thorough inspection process. Initial profiling of the shipment’s documents on January 19 raised suspicions, leading to a mandatory physical examination upon its arrival. An x-ray scan conducted by the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) detected anomalies, prompting a detailed search.
The inspection revealed a black vinyl window with tempered glass, inside which the four aluminum tubes filled with shabu were discovered. The total weight of the shabu was approximately 1.5 kg. The operation involved a collaborative effort with various agencies, including the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency Regional Office III, the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group, the PNP Drug Enforcement Group III, the National Bureau of Investigation-Pampanga, and local barangay officials from Dau.
Port of Clark District Collector Jairus Reyes emphasized the importance of this operation, stating, ‘This successful operation highlights our dedication in safeguarding our borders through increased vigilance and close cooperation with our partner agencies.’
Following the discovery, a warrant of seizure and detention was issued against the shipment, citing violations of Republic Act 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in conjunction with Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.