Ex-Bangsamoro solon Rimbang denies bankrolling P3.5-billion Laos shabu shipment
Former Bangsamoro parliament member Edrieza Rimbang has publicly denied allegations that he financed a P3.5-billion methamphetamine shipment from Laos to the Philippines. Rimbang rejected claims of his involvement and stated he has not fled the country despite being named a person of interest.
Why it matters
The case involves high-level allegations of drug trafficking linked to regional political figures, impacting the integrity of the Bangsamoro transition government.
MANILA, Philippines - Former Bangsamoro parliament member Edrieza Rimbang has denied financing the recently foiled attempt to ship P3.5 billion worth of "shabu (meth)" from Laos into the Philippines.
In a nine-minute video posted on Facebook on Thursday, October 22, Rimbang denied having connived with any individual to arrange for drug shipments to enter the Philippines.
"What they are saying, that we are involved in that Laos [shipment], is not true," he said in Filipino.
He also dismissed claims that he bankrolled the operation, pointing to his defeat in last month's Bangsamoro parliamentary elections, which he blamed on a lack of funds. "Now they are saying I financed drugs. Where would I get the money?" he said.
Interior Secretary Jonvic Remulla named Rimbang on October 16 as one of 11 persons of interest in the case, saying he was "believed to be the financier of the entire operation."
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