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Radioactive Bust: NBI Seizes 100 Kilos Of Uranium In Nationwide Crackdown
Photo credit: NBI
The National Bureau of Investigation, under the leadership of Director Jaime B. Santiago, has pulled off an unprecedented nationwide operation, seizing a staggering 100 kilos of radioactive depleted uranium and arresting several individuals involved in its illegal trade.
The operation began when the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) approached Director Santiago for help after uncovering the alarming illicit sale of uranium—a dangerous material with ties to nuclear weapons. Depleted uranium isn't just a health hazard—it’s also a national security threat, as terror groups could use it to enhance their weaponry.
The Sting in Pasay City
Following Director Santiago’s directive, NBI operatives went straight to work. On October 18, 2024, an entrapment operation in Pasay City led to the arrest of two key individuals: Mae Vergel Zagala, also known as “Madame Mae,” and Arnel Gimpaya Santiago, both linked to the mastermind Roy Cabesas Vistal, who initially evaded capture.
In this sting, authorities recovered 20 kilograms of metal bars and 3 kilograms of black powder, all testing positive for Uranium-235 and Uranium-238—radioactive materials that should never be in civilian hands. A follow-up search at Vistal’s Pasay residence revealed more contaminated items and uranium traces, forcing decontamination procedures in the area.
The Manhunt: From Pasay to Cagayan de Oro
The hunt for Vistal didn’t stop there. After a relentless search, NBI operatives finally nabbed him on October 28, 2024, in Cagayan de Oro City. But the discoveries only got more shocking. Authorities raided Vistal’s CDO residence and found another stash of uranium-laced materials—this time including a suspicious black pot weighing up to 5 kilograms. Even the family vehicle was flagged for severe uranium contamination.
The Cebu Connection
Further investigation revealed the source of the radioactive materials: Cebu. Acting quickly, NBI teams and the AFP Cebu Joint Task Force conducted a search operation in Mandaue City on November 8 and 9, 2024. This raid led to the recovery of an additional 60 kilograms of block metals, again testing positive for Uranium-238 and Uranium-235.
Criminal Charges Filed
With the radioactive materials secured and key players arrested, the NBI filed criminal charges against the group under R.A. No. 5207, the Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Act of 1968. The case is now in the hands of the courts in Pasay City and Cagayan de Oro.
A Collaborative Win
Director Santiago commended the operation as a triumph of teamwork and resilience, highlighting the bravery of the NBI, PNRI, AFP, and other involved agencies. He emphasized that their efforts were critical in preventing the uranium from falling into the wrong hands and causing untold harm.
For now, the radioactive threat has been neutralized, but the case serves as a stark reminder: illegal nuclear materials are a danger that requires constant vigilance and collaboration.
The operation began when the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) approached Director Santiago for help after uncovering the alarming illicit sale of uranium—a dangerous material with ties to nuclear weapons. Depleted uranium isn't just a health hazard—it’s also a national security threat, as terror groups could use it to enhance their weaponry.
The Sting in Pasay City
Following Director Santiago’s directive, NBI operatives went straight to work. On October 18, 2024, an entrapment operation in Pasay City led to the arrest of two key individuals: Mae Vergel Zagala, also known as “Madame Mae,” and Arnel Gimpaya Santiago, both linked to the mastermind Roy Cabesas Vistal, who initially evaded capture.
In this sting, authorities recovered 20 kilograms of metal bars and 3 kilograms of black powder, all testing positive for Uranium-235 and Uranium-238—radioactive materials that should never be in civilian hands. A follow-up search at Vistal’s Pasay residence revealed more contaminated items and uranium traces, forcing decontamination procedures in the area.
The Manhunt: From Pasay to Cagayan de Oro
The hunt for Vistal didn’t stop there. After a relentless search, NBI operatives finally nabbed him on October 28, 2024, in Cagayan de Oro City. But the discoveries only got more shocking. Authorities raided Vistal’s CDO residence and found another stash of uranium-laced materials—this time including a suspicious black pot weighing up to 5 kilograms. Even the family vehicle was flagged for severe uranium contamination.
The Cebu Connection
Further investigation revealed the source of the radioactive materials: Cebu. Acting quickly, NBI teams and the AFP Cebu Joint Task Force conducted a search operation in Mandaue City on November 8 and 9, 2024. This raid led to the recovery of an additional 60 kilograms of block metals, again testing positive for Uranium-238 and Uranium-235.
Criminal Charges Filed
With the radioactive materials secured and key players arrested, the NBI filed criminal charges against the group under R.A. No. 5207, the Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Act of 1968. The case is now in the hands of the courts in Pasay City and Cagayan de Oro.
A Collaborative Win
Director Santiago commended the operation as a triumph of teamwork and resilience, highlighting the bravery of the NBI, PNRI, AFP, and other involved agencies. He emphasized that their efforts were critical in preventing the uranium from falling into the wrong hands and causing untold harm.
For now, the radioactive threat has been neutralized, but the case serves as a stark reminder: illegal nuclear materials are a danger that requires constant vigilance and collaboration.
Dec 9, 2024
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