Threat Actor: Roy Vistal | Roy Vistal
Victim: Public Safety | Public Safety
Price: Not applicable
Exfiltrated Data Type: Radioactive materials
Key Points :
- The NBI seized nearly 100 kilograms of radioactive materials in an operation against illegal depleted uranium trade.
- Mae Vergel Zagala, known as “Madame Mae,” and Arnel Santiago were arrested alongside Roy Vistal.
- 20 kilograms of metal bars and 3 kilograms of black powder testing positive for uranium were confiscated during the raid.
- Further searches revealed more radioactive materials and contamination at Vistal’s residence.
- Authorities traced the source of the uranium to Cebu and conducted additional raids, recovering 60 kilograms of radioactive metal.
- The suspects face charges under the Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Act.
- NBI Director Jaime Santiago emphasized the importance of teamwork in ensuring public safety and national security.
- The NBI encourages the public to report suspicious activities to prevent similar threats in the future.
The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has stopped a dangerous illegal trade in depleted uranium, seizing nearly 100 kilograms of radioactive materials. The operation, led by NBI Director Jaime Santiago, also resulted in several arrests and highlighted the serious risks of these materials to public safety and national security.
The case began when the Philippine Nuclear Research Institute (PNRI) asked the NBI for help. PNRI warned that depleted uranium could be used to make dangerous weapons and could harm anyone exposed to it due to its toxic and radioactive nature.
On October 18, 2024, the NBI raided a site in Pasay City. They arrested Mae Vergel Zagala, known as “Madame Mae,” and Arnel Santiago, who worked for the group’s leader, Roy Vistal. Authorities seized 20 kilograms of metal bars and 3 kilograms of black powder, all testing positive for uranium.
Another search of Vistal’s home in Pasay revealed more radioactive materials and widespread contamination. Experts from PNRI have since been cleaning up the area to ensure public safety.
Roy Vistal evaded capture for 10 days but was eventually arrested on October 28 in Cagayan de Oro. A search of his home there revealed more uranium-contaminated items and evidence of radiation in the house and even his family car. Further investigations traced the source of the uranium to Cebu. On November 8-9, authorities raided a site in Mandaue City, recovering 60 kilograms of radioactive metal.
The suspects are now facing charges under the Atomic Energy Regulatory and Liability Act. NBI Director Santiago praised the hard work and bravery of the teams involved, including the PNRI, military, and local government units.
“This operation shows how teamwork can protect public safety and stop threats to national security,” he said.
The NBI urges the public to report suspicious activities to help prevent similar risks in the future.
Source: National Bureau of Investigation Press Release
Source: https://kukublanph.data.blog/2024/12/09/nbi-busts-illegal-depleted-uranium-trade-arrests-suspects/