Romanian national caught with ammo at NAIA

A Romanian male passenger was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 2 after authorities discovered he was carrying 50 rounds of ammunition in his luggage, the Office for Transportation Security (OTS) disclosed on Friday.

The incident took place on May 27, when OTS personnel flagged the suspicious item during routine baggage screening. X-ray operator Marile Banola and baggage inspector Melfie Baya were credited for the discovery.

According to OTS spokesperson Kim Marquez, the passenger was bound for Bohol-Panglao International Airport when the ammunition was detected. He was immediately turned over to the Philippine National Police Aviation Security Group (AVSEGROUP) for proper handling.

In a statement, AVSEGROUP confirmed that the foreigner was arrested and taken into custody for the filing of appropriate charges. Initial findings suggest the passenger may have unintentionally left the ammunition in his bag.

“Even a single piece of ammunition can cause inconvenience when passing through our airports,” AVSEGROUP Director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abecia warned. “Regardless of the gun ban, it is still illegal to carry such items without proper documentation.”

Authorities reminded the public to double-check their belongings before heading to the airport to avoid similar incidents.