Massive P700M Drugs Seized in Bulacan
Authorities confiscated suspected shabu (crystal meth) worth P700.4 million in Bulacan, sparking an investigation into possible connections with illegal drugs recently found drifting in nearby waters. The Philippine National Police Drug Enforcement Group (PNP DEG) revealed this major bust during a press briefing at Camp Crame.
On Saturday night, operatives seized 103 kilograms of shabu along Bantique Street in Barangay Bulihan, Plaridel. Brig. Gen. Edwin Quilates described the seized packages as still wet upon opening, with multiple layers of wrapping. “When we opened the package, our investigators who were conducting the inventory said it was still wet. The bag was also wet. Then the packaging was wet. The tea bags had four layers of covering,” he said.
Investigating Possible Links to Floating Shabu
Police are now probing whether this massive haul is connected to the shabu recovered in coastal waters off Luzon. “We will look into that. We will connect it to the recoveries there in Subic recently. That’s the disposition of our operatives and investigators,” Quilates explained.
The recent discovery of shabu drifting off Luzon has an estimated value of P9.3 billion, raising concerns about a larger drug syndicate operating through maritime routes.
Two Suspects Arrested in Operation
Two individuals were apprehended during the operation. One is a 55-year-old Chinese national named “Lian,” who runs a seafood store and small restaurant in the area. He has lived in the Philippines for over 10 years with his common-law wife. Authorities are verifying his residency status and documentation.
His alleged accomplice, a 40-year-old Filipino identified as “Ry,” was described as merely a helper. Both suspects are now in custody at the PNP DEG headquarters for documentation.
Next Steps and Charges
The confiscated drugs have been sent to the Forensic Group for laboratory analysis. Meanwhile, the suspects will face charges under Republic Act 9165, otherwise known as the Dangerous Drugs Act.
Local officials and law enforcement sources emphasize that this seizure marks a significant blow to drug syndicates operating in the region. They vow to continue dismantling networks facilitating the entry and distribution of illegal substances.
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