DOJ approves charges against Tigranes for smuggling P218M shabu

The Department of Justice (DOJ) has approved the filing of criminal charges against Christine Tigranes for her involvement in smuggling P218 million worth of shabu seized at Ninoy Aquino International Airport on April 17.

Tigranes is charged with violating Republic Act 9165, specifically Section 4 on Importation of Dangerous Drugs, and Section 1401 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act for unlawful importation.

The shipment, declared as 'machinery muffler,' arrived from Zimbabwe on April 13 and was consigned to Tigranes by Isaac Chikore from Harare.

During her arrest at the PAIR-PAGS Center in NAIA Complex, Tigranes claimed to be the consignee of the parcels and presented an airway bill for them.

The drugs were found inside four brown cartons that passed through the X-ray machine, revealing suspicious contents which led to a physical inspection, resulting in her immediate arrest.

Justice Secretary Jesus Crispin Remulla said Tigranes' arrest should be a warning for those involved in illegal drugs and emphasized the DOJ's commitment to fighting drug-related crimes.

The department remains firm in its commitment to waging war against drugs, aiming for a 100 percent drug-free Philippines.