BOC seizes P2.7B crystal meth in Manila, 5 suspects face charges

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized a P2.7-billion stash of 471 kilograms of crystal meth, hidden in vermicelli and custard powder packs, at the Port of Manila on Jan. 15.

The drugs were smuggled from Pakistan and falsely declared as Crispo vermicelli and Rafhan custard sauce.

The Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service (CIIS) initiated an alert order after coordination with other agencies, leading to the interception.

A physical examination revealed 471 cartons of vermicelli, 58 cartons of methamphetamine, and 169 cartons of custard powder.

A Warrant of Seizure and Detention (WSD) was issued against the shipment, citing violations under the CMTA and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.

Five suspects are now facing inquest proceedings, with criminal charges pending at the Manila regional trial court.

BOC Commissioner Bien Rubio praised the collaboration between BOC, NBI, PDEA, and DOJ in the successful operation.