An Israeli man was arrested at Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 after authorities found firearm parts and live ammunition in his checked luggage, the Philippine National Police-Aviation Security Group (PNP-AVSEGROUP) confirmed.
The 50-year-old passenger, reportedly a defense consultant and military reservist from Jerusalem, was on his way to Dubai with a connecting flight to Tel Aviv when security personnel intercepted him during routine baggage screening.
“The incident began when an alert X-ray operator detected an image resembling a firearm,” the AVSEGROUP said in a statement posted Thursday. A follow-up manual inspection led to the discovery of multiple disassembled gun components.
Recovered items included parts of a 5.56mm rifle, a .22 caliber revolver frame and cylinder, a .45 magazine, and boxes of live bullets. The suspect was unable to present permits authorizing him to carry or transport the weapons.
He was taken to NAIA Police Station 3 for further investigation and possible filing of criminal charges.
“This incident underscores our unwavering commitment to airport security,” said AVSEGROUP chief Police Brigadier General Jason Capoy. “AVSEGROUP will continue to enforce the law and protect our country’s gateways from any form of threat.”
