KOROR, Palau — With Palau facing what law enforcement has described as a drug crisis, President Surangel Whipps Jr. has identified combating illegal drugs as a top priority for his administration as he prepares to lead the 12th government this month.
Whipps announced his intention to pursue harsher penalties for drug-related crimes, emphasizing the urgent need for stronger measures to address the growing issue. “This is one of the first things we will act on as we take office,” Whipps said.
Recent drug busts have highlighted the escalating problem. On December 24, authorities apprehended a Palauan woman, Elvira Pendleton, also known as Elvira Kintol, after methamphetamine was found in her baggage upon arrival from Guam. On January 4, another passenger, Wing Sau Lam, arriving on a Hong Kong Airlines flight, was caught with 793.8 grams of methamphetamine hidden in her baggage and clothing. Just two days later, police arrested a local man, Michael Baza, seizing 1.48 grams of methamphetamine found on his person and in his vehicle.
Whipps credited the Customs & Border Management Unit for its efforts in securing Palau’s borders. Since August 2024, the unit has been involved in 11 drug busts. The group, a collaboration between the Bureau of Customs and Border Protection, Bureau of Immigration, the Post Office, the Bureau of Public Safety, and the National Security Coordinator, plays a crucial role in intercepting illegal substances.
Currently, Palau’s penalties for drug-related offenses are severe. Possession of controlled substances carries a minimum sentence of 15 years imprisonment and a fine of up to $20,000. Convictions for trafficking or importing controlled substances come with a minimum sentence of 25 years and fines ranging from $50,000 to $1 million.
However, there are discrepancies in how these penalties are applied. In some cases, courts impose probation in lieu of the full prison term. For example, a 25-year sentence for drug trafficking might be reduced to 10 years in prison with the remaining time served on probation.
Additionally, foreign nationals convicted of drug crimes are often deported after serving only a fraction of their sentences, raising concerns about the enforcement of penalties.
Whipps stated he plans to work closely with the Olbiil Era Kelulau (Palau National Congress) to strengthen laws and ensure stricter enforcement.