BOC seizes P39.6 million in kush hidden in balikbayan boxes

Authorities have seized P39.6 million worth of kush (dried marijuana leaves) concealed in two balikbayan boxes, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) reported Sunday.

The boxes, shipped from Canada's Vancouver City, arrived at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) and were intercepted on February 5 following intelligence reports.

Originally declared as used household goods and personal effects, the boxes were consigned to an individual from San Mateo, Rizal.

One box contained 56 vacuum-sealed pouches with approximately 14,672 grams of kush and a small plastic container holding 60 unidentified tablets. The second box held 52 vacuum-sealed pouches with around 13,624 grams of kush.

The consignees, senders, and recipients face charges for violating customs laws, including prohibited importation, misdeclaration, and offenses under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act. — DVM, GMA Integrated News