Fishermen help seize P7B shabu, dumped by Sam Gor

The Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) reported that an international crime syndicate called Sam Gor is responsible for dumping over P7 billion worth of shabu in waters off Pangasinan and Ilocos Sur.

Fishermen discovered the drugs starting on June 5, with a total of 1,038 kg. recovered by joint operations involving PDEA, PCG, PNP, PN, and NBI as of Monday, making it one of the country's largest maritime seizures in recent years.

The packaging in teabags with Chinese markings is associated with Sam Gor, a five-drug triad alliance whose leaders are based in Hong Kong and Taiwan. The syndicate is known for using unconventional methods to smuggle drugs, including dumping them at sea.

Director General Isagani Nerez praised fisherfolk for their vigilance and integrity in turning over the illegal substances, calling them 'true heroes' in the fight against drug smuggling.

The PCG and PN are continuing patrols and retrieval missions with support from local government units to ensure further recoveries and prevent the drugs from reaching dangerous hands.