CIDG urges alleged financier of Laos drug shipment to appear before authorities

Floyd Brenz., Philippine Canadian Inquirer
October 21, 2026

Photo Courtesy: RTVM

The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has urged a businessman identified as the alleged financier of a multibillion-peso drug shipment intercepted in Laos to appear before authorities as investigators continue probing the case.

The appeal concerns Sultan Edrieza Nasser Rimbang, who has been linked to the investigation into the seizure of 521 kilograms of suspected shabu at Luang Prabang International Airport in Laos. The illegal drugs were reportedly concealed in 21 suitcases aboard a private aircraft allegedly bound for the Philippines.

Authorities have been examining the shipment’s origin, intended recipients and possible links to local and international drug networks. The seized drugs were estimated to be worth around ₱3.5 billion.

The CIDG’s call for Rimbang to appear is intended to help investigators clarify his alleged involvement and establish the circumstances surrounding the shipment. Being identified as a person of interest or alleged financier does not, by itself, establish criminal liability.

The case has also drawn public attention following reports of Rimbang’s political connections in the Bangsamoro region and his alleged association with members of the Duterte family.

Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla previously said the Duterte family was not connected to the intercepted shipment. The investigation, however, has continued as authorities seek to establish the identities and roles of those allegedly involved.

Investigators are expected to pursue further leads and gather evidence to determine who financed, organized or facilitated the movement of the suspected illegal drugs.

Authorities have yet to establish publicly all the details surrounding the shipment, including its intended destination and the full extent of any Philippine-based network connected to it.