Licensed Customs Broker Arrested for Balikbayan Boxes Extortion
A licensed customs broker and her sister were taken into custody for allegedly attempting to extort P1.9 million from a businessman. The money was demanded to facilitate the release of balikbayan boxes containing goods valued at approximately P600,000. These boxes were sent by overseas Filipino workers (OFWs) to the Philippines.
Authorities confirmed the arrest of the two women during an entrapment operation held at a Manila coffee shop. The operation was carried out by the National Bureau of Investigation’s Organized and Transnational Crimes Division in cooperation with the Bureau of Customs.
Details of the Arrest and Investigation
NBI Director Jaime B. Santiago revealed that the arrest happened on June 3 following a complaint filed by a businessman identified as Kenji Ochakosan. “’Nung malaman namin ‘yung reklamo n’ya at ang kanyang kargamento ay about balikbayan boxes lalo kaming naging interested,’” Santiago said, highlighting the significance of the cargo involved.
The complaint stated that the businessman had hired Wyeth Navalles, a licensed customs broker, to handle his importation process. They agreed on an all-inclusive fee of P500,000. Although P220,938 was already paid for customs duties and taxes, Navalles allegedly claimed the shipment was held due to misdeclaration.
Allegations of Corruption and Extortion
The NBI learned that Navalles demanded an additional P1.9 million as ‘grease money’ to ensure the release of the goods. This money was reportedly intended to be distributed among various Bureau of Customs divisions, as well as agencies like the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency and the Philippine Coast Guard.
Because of this demand, the complainant sought help from the NBI, leading to the entrapment and arrest of Navalles and her sister Leila. The NBI emphasized its commitment to thoroughly investigate the matter and uncover the full scope of the syndicate victimizing OFWs through such schemes.
Ongoing Investigations and Next Steps
Director Santiago assured the public that the investigation will probe deeply into how extensive this syndicate is, especially since it targets OFW remittances. The Bureau of Customs is conducting its own inquiry to determine whether any of its officials or personnel are complicit in the extortion.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the challenges faced by OFWs and their families in ensuring their goods reach home without falling prey to corruption.
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