The Bureau of Customs (BOC) intercepted a shipment from the United States containing P350,000 worth of cannabis-infused vapes at the Port of Clark.
The shipment arrived on August 26, 2024, and was declared as "Home Decor Lift Top End Table with Charging Station and Wheels, Sofa Side Table with USB Port + AC Outlets, Movable Bedside Nightstand." However, the X-ray Inspection Project scanner flagged the item for further examination. Likewise, the K-9 unit also detected the presence of illegal substances.
On August 29, 2024, the assigned Customs Examiner conducted a 100% physical examination and uncovered 200 pieces of cannabis-infused disposable vapes from various brands. Samples were subjected to the Customs' Rigaku Spectrometer Reader, which indicated the presence of cannabinoids. The samples were also turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) for chemical laboratory analysis, which confirmed that the substances were indeed marijuana, a dangerous drug under Republic Act (R.A.) No. 9165, as amended.
The inspection was coordinated with the PDEA, Philippine National Police—Aviation Security Group, National Bureau of Investigation—Pampanga District Office, the Department of Justice, and Dau barangay officials.
A Warrant of Seizure and Detention was issued for the shipment for violating Section 118(g), 119(d), and 1113 paragraphs f, i, and l (3 and 4) of R.A. No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA), in relation to R.A. No. 9165.
District Collector Erastus Sandino B. Austria continues to enhance efforts against illegal goods and is actively strengthening partnerships with other agencies, fully supporting BOC Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio's commitment to adhere to President Marcos' directive to combat illegal drugs.
"Our vigilant efforts at the ports are crucial in the fight against drug trafficking. We remain resolute in our mission to disrupt these illegal activities and ensure that those involved face the full force of the law," Commissioner Rubio warned.
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