Ex-Bangsamoro lawmaker denies involvement in massive drug smuggling case

Edrieza Hadji Nasser Rimbang, a former Bangsamoro parliament member, denied on Friday any connection to the foiled drug smuggling operation that authorities say involved billions of pesos in illegal substances transiting from Laos. The ex-lawmaker stated he is being wrongly implicated in the case solely because of his known support for former President Rodrigo Duterte.

Rimbang issued the statement after Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla identified him in connection with the smuggling attempt. The case has drawn scrutiny into possible involvement by high-profile figures in international drug trafficking networks operating through Southeast Asian routes.

The P3.5-billion narcotics shipment represents one of the largest interdiction efforts in recent years. Authorities have not released additional details regarding the specifics of the alleged operation or the scope of the investigation into potential accomplices.

Rimbang's denial adds another layer to what officials describe as a complex investigation involving multiple jurisdictions and parties. The case underscores ongoing concerns about organized crime networks exploiting regional trade routes and political connections to facilitate illegal drug operations across South and Southeast Asia.