Nargroup closes in on Filipino connection of HK Triad

The anti-narcotics unit of the Philippine National Police (PNP) is closing in on the Filipino associates of a drug syndicate responsible for bringing into the country some 500 kilos of shabu, a top police official said yesterday.

Narcotics Group (Nargroup) agents have arrested 10 undocumented Chinese nationals and seized some 391 kilos of shabu in separate operations in Zambales and Manila beginning November.

Nargroup chief Director Efren Fernandez said they have begun a manhunt for a certain Eddie Chua, who is believed to be the mastermind of the Hong Kong triad, an international drug syndicate operating in the Philippines.

Seven Chinese nationals belonging to the big-time drug syndicate were arrested in Pasay City over the weekend in a series of raids conducted by Nargroup agents. Seized were some 57 kilos of shabu.

Last Nov. 16, police intercepted 334 kilograms of high-grade shabu worth P668 million in a checkpoint in San Narciso, Zambales. Three Chinese nationals were arrested.

Fernandez said they have identified at least four of the group’s Filipino associates.

"My men are currently monitoring the movement of the Filipino connection," he said. "We expect to have them arrested in due time."

Sources said agents were preparing to swoop down yesterday on an undisclosed bodega belonging to the suspects.

Fernandez said the 10 arrested Chinese nationals were listed a "level one" in the Nargroup’s order of battle against drug traffickers.

The Nargroup said members of the Filipino connection act as distributors of the illegal drugs in local market.

One source claimed the group is connected with local politicians. He refused to elaborate.

Fernandez said the drug syndicate usually rents or buys highly secured condominium units in Metro Manila, making it hard for police to monitor their movements.

"We have a difficult time going after them because security personnel of these condominiums often refuse entry to our undercover agents," he explained.

Fernandez said he is set to hold a meeting with several condominium owners to discuss the problem.

Meanwhile, PNP chief Director General Leandro Mendoza said the government will be coordinating with Chinese officials to map out plans for an effective joint campaign against kidnap-for-ransom gangs and drug syndicates.

"There is a plan to call the attention of the Chinese government to these issues," Mendoza said.

Justice Secretary Hernando Perez and Interior and Local Government Secretary Jose Lina Jr. will be visiting China early next year to meet with their counterparts in government.

Mendoza’s statements came on the heels of reports that Chinese nationals from the mainland were involved in the kidnapping of rich Filipino-Chinese in Metro Manila and nearby provinces. – With Christina Mendez