The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) uncovered a shocking illegal uranium smuggling operation, recovering 100 kilograms of uranium worth P680 million in multiple raids across the Philippines.
The coordinated operations took place in Pasay, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, and Dagupan, leading to the arrest of three suspects: Mae “Madame Mae” Vergel Zagala, Arnel Gimpaya Santiago, and Roy Vistal. According to NBI investigators, the confiscated materials included Uranium-235 and Uranium-238 in both metal and powdered forms.
One of the most alarming discoveries was at Vistal’s residence in Cagayan de Oro, where authorities found severe uranium contamination, raising concerns about public safety and environmental hazards. Uranium is a hazardous substance often linked to nuclear weapons like dirty bombs, which can cause widespread harm.
Authorities are now probing the suspects’ previous transactions and the smuggling routes involved. The trio faces charges under Republic Act No. 5207, also known as the Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Act.
The incident underscores the pressing need for heightened monitoring of radioactive materials in the Philippines to prevent catastrophic misuse.
