PNP Region 5 seizes P125-M cocaine in Sorsogon

Philippine National Police (PNP) operatives in the Bicol region recovered cocaine estimated to be worth P125 million along the shores of Juag Lagoon in Barangay Calintaan, Matnog, Sorsogon.

According to a statement released Thursday, the drugs were contained in 25 sealed plastic packs inside a blue plastic container.

The stash was seized as nine Chinese crew members of a distressed Chinese cargo vessel, Jing Ming No. 16, were rescued by local authorities in Laoang Island in nearby Northern Samar.

Police said the ship encountered rough seas while sailing and was found half-submerged.

The nine crew members were taken into custody of the town mayor.

The PNP added that they were also looking into the possible connection of the illegal drugs with the distressed ship on the opposite side of San Bernardino Strait. — BAP/KG, GMA News