By: Olkeriil Eoghan Ngirudelsang
Koror, Palau – The Palau Ministry of Justice (MOJ) said it will not pursue a drug trafficking case linked to a package containing methamphetamine intercepted in the Philippines.
The package, addressed to a Chinese national named Mr. Cui in Koror, Palau, was seized at Ninoy Aquino International Airport by Philippine authorities. It contained 207.9 grams of methamphetamine hydrochloride, commonly known as ice.
According to MOJ officials, the decision not to pursue the case stems from a lack of clear connection to Palau. “Since there is no connection to Palau,” authorities stated, “we will not pursue the case or further investigate the person in Palau who is allegedly involved.”
Authorities also confirmed Mr. Cui has no connection to previous drug cases in Palau.
Calls to the MOJ Public Information Office for comment on this specific case were unsuccessful.
The Philippine police estimate the value of the seized drugs at over $24,000 USD in the Philippines. A Palauan anti-drug officer with experience in drug enforcement said, “That quantity of drugs in Palau is worth triple or four times that amount.”
The news of the intercepted package, first reported by foreign media, Manila Standard, has surprised many Palauan residents. While reported drug busts and cases have declined in recent months, public concern about a growing drug problem in Palau persists.