Philippines Seizes 41kg Methamphetamine Shipment Imported from Afghanistan

Philippine authorities seized a 41-kilogram shipment of methamphetamine, known locally as "shabu," valued at approximately $5 million, at the Manila International Container Port. The drugs, contained in 131 packages, were hidden in the false walls, floors, and rear sections of steel containers declared as marble imports from Afghanistan.

Interior Minister Yunovich Romula and Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno visited the seizure site and stated that real marble was present in the containers, but the methamphetamine had been expertly embedded within the steel structures. The Customs Agency described this as the first instance of such a smuggling method, where drugs are concealed inside the original packaging of imported goods.

Isagani Nerez, deputy head of the Philippine Anti-Drug Agency, noted that this was not the first seizure of drugs from Afghanistan, emphasizing that security forces had previously intercepted shipments referred to as "Afghan glass."

Officials said the Customs Agency is reviewing the purchase of advanced AI-equipped X-ray and scanning devices to enhance detection of illegal drugs in imports, with the upgrade order issued in November of the previous year. Investigations into the smuggling network and involved individuals are ongoing.