More than 21 summoned in Laos drug inquiry

UNCOVERING LINKS A slide shown at the briefing held by the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police in Malacañang on October 16, 2026, identifies the persons of interest behind the Manila-bound drug shipment seized in Laos on Oct. 1. —DILG photo

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group has subpoenaed more than 21 individuals to shed light on the attempt to smuggle P3.5 billion worth of crystal meth or “shabu” from Laos to the Philippines on Oct. 1.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla earlier named 11 persons of interest, including Police Master Sgt. Aileen Jayne Manalo Mendoza of the Aviation Security Group.

READ: BARMM politicians, 10 others under probe over Laos drug seizure

“At the very least, if you do not answer the subpoena, you lose your chance to air your side,” said Col. Allen Co, spokesperson for the PNP. —Andrea Gregorio