DOJ inspects shabu-carrying magnetic lifters at MICP

Prosecutors from the Department of Justice (DOJ) on Friday inspected the two magnetic lifters that authorities found to have contained P2.4-billion worth of shabu last year.

A panel of DOJ prosecutors led by Assistant State Prosecutor Mary Jane Sytat conducted the ocular inspection at the Manila International Container Port (MICP) as part of its investigation into complaints against several personalities alleged to have been behind the shipment.

On Thursday, they inspected the four magnetic lifters said to have concealed P11-billion worth of shabu that were discovered in Cavite a day after the contraband was seized in Manila last August.

The seized drugs have since been turned over to the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

The PDEA and the National Bureau of Investigation have filed separate complaints for importation of illegal drugs, graft, and other offenses in connection with the shipments.

In one of the complaints, former Customs chief Isidro Lapeña was accused of graft, grave misconduct, and dereliction of duty for his alleged failure to prosecute those involved in the crime.

The DOJ has scheduled its next hearing on the preliminary investigation for March 12. — Nicole-Anne C. Lagrimas/RSJ, GMA News