HIGH-GRADE MARIJUANA. The Bureau of Customs-Port of Clark reported on Tuesday (June 13, 2023) its discovery and seizure of high-grade marijuana misdeclared as men's t-shirts, trousers and windbreakers last May. Examination showed that the value of the kush from Kentucky, USA reached some PHP2.5 million. (Photo courtesy of the Bureau of Customs)
CITY OF SAN FERNANDO, Pampanga – The Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Port of Clark uncovered some PHP2.5 million worth of high-grade marijuana or kush last May 18.
In a report belatedly released by BOC-Port of Clark on Tuesday, the illegal drugs were discovered in a shipment from Kentucky, USA that was declared as men's t-shirts, men's trousers and men's windbreakers.
Initially flagged as suspicious by the X-ray Inspection Project (XIP) personnel, the shipment underwent K9 sniffing by the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) K9 Unit, which indicated the presence of dangerous drugs.
A physical examination was immediately conducted that led to the discovery of three jog-sealed bags concealing dried leaves and fruiting tops.
Samples were handed over to the PDEA for chemical laboratory analysis, which identified as tetrahydrocannabinol/marijuana, a dangerous drug under Republic Act 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002.
District Collector Elvira Cruz issued a warrant of seizure and detention against the shipment after finding probable cause for violation of Section 118 (g), 119 (d), and 1113 par. (f), (I), and (l)-(3) and (4) of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act in relation to RA 9165.
“The Port of Clark remains vigilant against various drug smuggling attempts and this recent accomplishment is a testament that we are consistent in fulfilling the mission of the Bureau of Customs to strengthen border security,” Cruz said in a statement.
Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio, meanwhile, commended BOC-Clark for combating illegal drug smuggling and acknowledged the support of PDEA in the bureau's anti-illegal drug operations. (PNA)
