Major Ketamine and Marijuana Kush Seizure in Pasay
Authorities seized a total of P16,248,980 worth of ketamine and marijuana kush during a targeted interdiction operation at the Central Mail Exchange Center (CMEC) in Pasay City on June 5. The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) led the operation, uncovering the illicit drugs hidden in parcels that had arrived from various countries.
The ketamine and marijuana kush shipment was detected by the Ninoy Aquino International Airport-Inter-Agency Drug Task Group (NAIA-IADTG). They found ketamine valued at P15,125,000 and 858 grams of marijuana kush worth P1,123,980 concealed inside three separate barrels. These parcels were initially flagged as suspicious by Bureau of Customs (BOC) inspectors through X-ray screening.
Three Parcels From Different Countries
The first parcel, originating from the United States, was declared as a “Brand Shirt Pack.” Upon inspection, authorities discovered a vacuum-sealed transparent bag containing around 240 grams of dried leaves suspected to be marijuana kush.
The second parcel came from Thailand and contained three white boxes. Inside, officials found transparent bags filled with about 618 grams of marijuana kush. Meanwhile, the third parcel, sent from Poland, concealed five transparent bags with white crystalline substances suspected to be ketamine, weighing approximately 3,025 grams. These were hidden inside a coffee maker.
Thorough Investigation and Legal Action
After months without any claimants, the parcels were marked as abandoned, prompting closer scrutiny. On BOC’s instruction, the PDEA Airport Interdiction Unit conducted a K9 inspection, which positively detected the presence of dangerous drugs.
The PDEA confirmed that the shippers and recipients involved are now under investigation. They may face charges under Republic Act 9165, the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. All seized evidence will be sent to the PDEA Laboratory Service for further examination.
This operation highlights the continued vigilance of local authorities in intercepting illegal drug shipments entering the country through postal channels.
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