In a significant drug interdiction operation, authorities at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) have arrested a foreign passenger found in possession of shabu valued at over P28 million. The incident underscores the relentless vigilance of Philippine law enforcement at the country's key points of entry.
Arrest at Terminal 3
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported that a 48-year-old Croatian national was taken into custody at NAIA Terminal 3 on March 14, 2026. The suspect had arrived in the Philippines from Johannesburg, South Africa, with a connecting flight through Hong Kong, traveling alone at the time of the arrest.
Discovery and Seizure
During a routine baggage screening, aviation personnel flagged the suspect's luggage for further verification. A K9 narcotics detection dog was deployed, confirming the presence of illegal substances. Upon inspection, authorities uncovered approximately 4,156 grams of shabu, with an estimated street value of P28,260,800.
The drugs were meticulously concealed in improvised pouches wrapped in black duct tape, hidden within a false compartment of the suitcase. The suspect was immediately placed under arrest and is now in police custody, facing charges under the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
PNP Chief's Statement
PNP chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units involved in the bust, emphasizing the critical importance of sustained alertness at the nation's airports. "Our airports must not serve as gateways for illegal drugs," Nartatez stated. "Our personnel remain coordinated with partner agencies to intercept drug trafficking before it impacts our communities."
He added a clear warning: "Anyone attempting to smuggle illegal drugs into the Philippines will be intercepted and held fully accountable." The PNP is committed to strengthening airport security operations to safeguard public safety, he noted.
Additional Interceptions
In a related development, the PNP, through the NAIA Inter-Agency Drug Interdiction Task Group (IADITG), intercepted two abandoned inbound parcels on March 13, 2026. These parcels contained nearly 20 kilograms of suspected shabu, valued at approximately P135.96 million.
The shipments, originating from abroad and addressed to a recipient in Marilao, Bulacan, were flagged during X-ray screening by Bureau of Customs personnel. Nartatez highlighted that such operations demonstrate the continuous fight against illegal drugs. "We will not allow these prohibited substances to enter our country," he asserted, pledging enhanced cooperation with other agencies to protect citizens.
This series of interceptions at NAIA highlights the ongoing challenges and successes in combating drug trafficking through Philippine airports, with law enforcement agencies maintaining a proactive stance to prevent illicit activities from reaching local communities.
