ZAMBOANGA CITY — In a display of both cunning and criminal creativity, drug traffickers have resorted to hiding illegal drugs inside durul—a well-loved traditional Tausug delicacy—as authorities confiscated an estimated ₱3.4 million worth of suspected shabu during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Sinunuc on Monday.
Police operatives intercepted a fishing vessel from Indanan, Sulu, where the contraband was clandestinely transported and disguised using durul, a native rice cake made of rice flour, coffee, and sugar. Typically served during special occasions and gatherings among the Tausug people, durul has now been shamelessly exploited as a cover for drug trafficking activities.
Investigators said the suspects ingeniously wrapped the prohibited substances inside the delicacy, hoping that the familiar appearance and smell of the rice cake would help evade detection at checkpoints and ports. Authorities described this scheme as “another alarming example” of how drug networks are becoming increasingly innovative to slip past law enforcement efforts.
“Ginagamit na nila ang mga produktong kultura para sa ilegal na gawain. This reflects the level of desperation and the evolving tactics of drug syndicates,” an officer involved in the operation said.
The successful operation underscores yet again the persistence of drug smuggling routes between Sulu and Zamboanga Peninsula, with syndicates exploiting local food products, fishing vessels, and even traditional practices as cover.
Authorities have vowed to intensify maritime security, intelligence monitoring, and community coordination to prevent further misuse of cultural heritage for criminal operations.
Charges are now being prepared against those responsible, while investigations continue to determine the full network behind the smuggling attempt.