Overview:
A DHL package shipped from Malaysia and addressed to a Palau woman allegedly contained nearly 228 grams of suspected methamphetamine concealed inside three hollowed-out books. A man who authorities say collected the package has now been charged with attempted importation, trafficking and possession.
By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau (August 20, 2026) – A man has been charged with attempted importation, trafficking and possession of methamphetamine after authorities intercepted a DHL shipment containing 18 packets of a crystalline substance allegedly concealed inside three hollowed-out books.
Roldan Ellabed Renguul is charged in Criminal Case No. 26-056. The case stems from a shipment that arrived in Palau on May 6, 2026.
According to an affidavit of probable cause, Customs officers inspected the shipment at the Customs Airport Cargo facility at about 12:35 p.m. The package had been shipped from Malaysia and was addressed to Pasquana Sungino.
Officers allegedly discovered that three books had been hollowed out, with six clear plastic packets concealed inside each book. The packets were wrapped in blue carbon paper and had a combined gross weight of approximately 227.59 grams.
Investigators removed most of the suspected substance, retaining a representative sample. They replaced the remaining material with sham material before resealing the package.
At about 2 p.m., officers took the package to the DHL office in Malakal while maintaining surveillance. About an hour later, investigators allegedly saw Renguul arrive in a gray SUV, collect the package and walk toward his vehicle.
Renguul was then detained and taken to the Narcotics Enforcement Unit office.
The affidavit states that Renguul acknowledged knowing about the shipment and its purpose. He allegedly told investigators that he had communicated with another person about arranging methamphetamine shipments to Palau and that the shipment was not the first package arranged for him.
According to investigators, Sungino told them that Renguul had asked her to pick up the package, but she declined. The affidavit identifies Sungino as Renguul’s wife and states that he personally collected the package addressed to her.
A lawful examination of Renguul’s cellular telephone allegedly uncovered photographs of crystalline substances, DHL shipments and communications concerning suspected drug sales, international shipments, recipients, payments and concealment methods.
Investigators also reportedly recovered a DHL receipt addressed to Sungino from communications linked to Renguul’s Gmail account.
The attempted importation and trafficking charges each carry potential prison sentences of 25 to 50 years and fines ranging from $50,000 to $1 million upon conviction.
Renguul is presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty in court.