KOROR, Palau – Two Palauan men were charged last week with possession and trafficking of methamphetamine, also known as “ice,” according to court records.
On Dec. 9, the Office of the Attorney General filed charges against Mars Henion, who faces two felony counts of possession of a controlled substance. One count involves the possession of less than one gram of methamphetamine, which carries a penalty of at least five years in prison and a fine of no less than $10,000 if convicted.
Henion was also reportedly found with two ounces of marijuana, a felony offense punishable by a $500 fine if convicted.
According to the police report, Henion was apprehended after authorities responded to a report of property damage. During the investigation, police allegedly discovered a clear straw containing a crystalline substance that field-tested positive for methamphetamine, as well as marijuana joints in his possession.
The second defendant, Terrence Ngwal, has been charged with two felonies: attempted importation of a controlled substance and possession of a controlled substance. Attempted importation carries a severe penalty of at least 25 years in prison and a minimum fine of $50,000 if convicted.
Police allege that on Dec. 11, a package from the Philippines addressed to Ngwal was flagged by K9 officer Kendra during inspection. According to the report, the package contained 104 grams of a crystalline substance hidden in a can of powdered milk. Ngwal was arrested immediately after picking up the package from a remittance company.
Both defendants are currently in custody.
Law enforcement officials warn that methamphetamine and other illegal drugs continue to infiltrate Palau, posing significant threats to the nation’s youth and families.
The defendants named in this case are presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.