The PDEA has identified two Filipino suspects in an alleged attempt to fly 521 kilograms of suspected shabu from Laos to Manila by private jet. One suspect is detained in Laos, while the other allegedly paid for the aircraft’s charter, giving investigators leads as they build cases against participants in the Philippines.
“We have a pretty good idea who those involved are here. We have their names. And we are conducting an extensive investigation against these persons who are here in the Philippines,” PDEA Director General Isagani Nerez said on Oct. 12.
The detainee, alias “Fajad,” has addresses in Marawi and Luzon. Nerez said “Boyet,” who allegedly arranged the charter, shares Fajad’s Luzon address.
“It was done through bank transfer. We have data on that,” he said.
“So that links them…they know each other.”
Boyet left the Philippines on a flight bound for Hong Kong on Oct. 10, Nerez added. PDEA is working to establish who Fajad was coordinating with in the Philippines and their roles in the alleged operation.
Lao authorities seized the drugs on Oct. 1 at Luang Prabang International Airport, reporting 500 packages in 21 of 23 suitcases. 13 people were detained, including the crew, a foreign passenger, and company and airport personnel. A Learjet and pickup truck were also seized.
Malaysian narcotics chief Hussein Omar Khan said a Filipino booked the charter on Sept. 23 for US$49,500, declaring the cargo as vape products. The jet flew from Subang, Malaysia, to Laos without the drugs, with Manila as its intended next stop. Malaysian police shared booking details with PDEA.
Early reports claimed the drugs were aboard the jet, but operator CGT Asia said its crew rejected the bags over capacity, weight, and dangerous‑goods concerns before learning of their suspected contents. The company said the bags were never loaded.
Malaysian police are investigating whether the charter company’s owner was involved or exploited. Four people questioned in Malaysia, including the owner, were released after giving statements.
Nerez said Fajad must undergo trial under Lao law. He stressed any punishment would follow the legal process.
