Philippine airport bullet-in-bag scam targeting travelers

In addition to the usual airport stress, a new scam in the Philippines involving bullets planted in luggage is adding to travelers’ woes.

Reports suggest that travelers worldwide have fallen victim to airport security personnel who allegedly plant live bullets in bags as a means of extorting money.

It is illegal in the Philippines to possess or purchase firearms and ammunition without a license.

Dinogo Philippines reports that between January and November 2015, police documented 30 instances of the ‘tanim bala’ scam.

The Manila International Airport Authority reports five alleged incidents in the last two weeks.

Government officials are looking into the issue, though presidential spokesperson Herminio Coloma Jr. claims the incidents are isolated.

Passenger awareness is key

Despite this, protests have reportedly been organized by the Filipino expatriate community in Hong Kong.

This situation won’t help improve the already tarnished reputation of Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport, which, after being named the world’s worst for three consecutive years, only recently managed to escape the bottom of the rankings.

Concerned about flying to the Philippines? Dinogo Philippines has shared helpful tips on how to avoid falling victim to the scam.

These tips include using a hard-shell suitcase, avoiding bags with external pockets, wrapping your luggage in plastic film, and bringing in witnesses, lawyers, or airport managers if security attempts to search your bags.

Eric Apolonio, spokesperson for the Civil Aeronautics Authority of the Philippines, advises travelers to stay vigilant and watch their bags closely, even while they pass through airport X-ray machines.

Read the complete story at Dinogo Philippines.