P102 million shabu seized in Caloocan sting

MANILA, Philippines — An estimated P102 million worth of shabu stashed in packs of Chinese tea was confiscated from a suspect during an anti-narcotics operation in Caloocan City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported yesterday.

Randy Rafael Rodriguez, 42, was arrested by operatives of the PNP Drug Enforcement Group (DEG) during a sting along Baesa Road in Barangay 161 shortly after midnight yesterday.

Rodriguez allegedly yielded at least 15 kilos of shabu stuffed in Chinese tea bags, probers said.

Police said they also seized 10 bundles of marked money and a cell phone from the suspect.

Probers said they are conducting follow-up investigation to determine the suspect’s source of illegal drugs and if he is a member of a drug ring.

The operation was conducted by the PNP in coordination with the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Bureau of Customs and National Intelligence Coordinating Council.

The drugs were turned over to the PDEA for custodial investigation.

Rodriguez is being held at the DEG Metro Manila special operations unit headquarters on charges of violating Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act and RA 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Customs Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero said they would continue to coordinate with other law enforcement agencies to prevent the entry of illegal drugs in the country. – Evelyn Macairan