BOC seizes P1.5M worth of smuggled Chinese medicines in Pasay City

Bureau of Customs operatives have confiscated in Pasay City smuggled Chinese medicines estimated at P1.5 million.

In a press release, the BOC said Customs operatives, teaming up with the police and elements from the National Bureau of Investigation, apprehended the Chinese medicines on January 14, 2021.

Armed with a letter of authority (LOA), members of the joint team proceeded to a storage facility located in Pasay City.

During the inspection, authorities discovered a makeshift clinic  and Chinese medicines supply in the facility initially estimated at P1.5M.

Customs noted that one of the medicines was identified as RIBAVIRIN, which is used for treatment of pneumonia and bronchitis, prompting authorities to suspect that the clinic was treating COVID-related cases.

A thorough inventory and investigation are ongoing for possible violation of Section 1113 of R.A. 10863 also known as Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).

Investigation is also underway to identify those responsible in the operation of the makeshift clinic.

BOC reminds those experiencing COVID-related symptoms to immediately coordinate with proper government agencies for appropriate treatment. —LBG, GMA News