2 Filipinos arrested for drug trafficking in Macau

Two Filipinos, a man and a woman, were arrested by the Judiciary Police in Macau SAR last February 1 for alleged drug trafficking, according to a Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) press release.

The DFA thus reiterates its appeal to all Filipinos to avoid accepting offers from individuals or groups to carry illegal drugs in their luggage or in their person in exchange for money when going abroad, as harsh penalties await them in their destinations.

The two were apprehended in an apartment with 46 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, popularly known in the Philippines as shabu. The drugs have an estimated street value of 90,000 patacas (US$11,392.405). Several drug paraphernalia were also found in the apartment.

A suspected buyer, also a Filipino, was also brought in for questioning.

Consulate officials extended assistance to the Filipinos to ensure that their rights are respected and have been coordinating with Macau SAR authorities on the matter.

The Consulate has been constantly warning Filipinos based in Macau and Filipino tourists against using and dealing in drugs.

As of date, there are some 19 Filipinos currently detained in Macau on drug cases.

The Philippine Government has a strong anti-illegal drug policy, and is closely cooperating with law enforcement agencies in other countries on anti-drugs trafficking efforts. It is undertaking comprehensive and proactive measures to address the drug mules issue and to prevent Filipinos from falling prey to international drug syndicates.

The DFA has been working closely with other concerned agencies on drug trafficking cases.

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