A German national was arrested after an estimated P55.38 million worth of shabu was seized at NAIA Terminal 3. According to the Bureau of Customs – NAIA, the foreigner was stopped at the arrivals area on Friday after a suspicious image was detected in his luggage during X-ray screening.
The suspect arrived on a connecting flight from Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. Upon closer inspection, examiners discovered a white crystalline substance hidden in a false compartment of the suitcase and even inside two engraved Bibles. The packages were wrapped in multiple layers of plastic and duct tape to conceal the contents.
The total weight of the confiscated contraband is estimated at 8.145 kilos. According to initial analysis by K9 units and field testing, it tested positive for methamphetamine hydrochloride or shabu. The suspect was immediately arrested and subjected to investigation for violation of Republic Act No. 9165 or Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002 and Republic Act No. 10863 or Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
The evidence has been forwarded to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for further analysis and inquest proceedings. Bureau of Customs officials stressed that they continue to tighten border control measures through modern technology, intelligence operations, and stronger coordination among various government agencies.
According to the agency's leadership, their message is clear: any attempt to bring illegal drugs into the Philippines will be immediately identified, seized, and faced with appropriate charges. This incident is proof of the intensified campaign against drugs at the country's major airports.
