On the social media platform X (formerly Twitter), President Lee referred to the NIS as a "newly transformed organization," stating, "A sharp knife can harm or save lives, depending on how it is used." He shared a report titled, "NIS and Thai Authorities Conduct Raid... Seizing Massive Amounts of Raw Materials."
According to the report, the NIS and Thai authorities raided a warehouse in Thailand, confiscating a total of 49.98 tons of chemical substances, including acetone, hydrochloric acid, and sulfuric acid, which could be used to manufacture 21 tons of methamphetamine or 1.1 billion yaba pills, valued at approximately 8.4 trillion won. This marks the first time a South Korean government agency has directly targeted an overseas drug supply base.
Additionally, President Lee emphasized the government's responsibility to protect citizens abroad in relation to the arrest of the main suspect in the kidnapping and murder of Korean national Ji Ik-joo in the Philippines.
On Facebook, he posted a message titled, "There Are No Borders for the Lives and Safety of Our Citizens," announcing that the main suspect in Ji's murder had finally been apprehended. According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Rafael Dumlao, a former head of the Philippine National Police's anti-drug unit, was arrested by Philippine authorities in Manila the previous day.
Dumlao had been acquitted in a first trial in 2023 but was sentenced to life imprisonment without parole in a second trial in 2024. However, he managed to escape before a warrant for his arrest was issued by the appellate court.
President Lee stated, "We will pursue crimes against our citizens wherever they occur and ensure that those responsible are held accountable." He also expressed condolences to Ji's family, recalling their request for justice during his visit to the Philippines in March.
He noted that the successful apprehension was made possible through close cooperation between the Korean Embassy in the Philippines, the Korean Desk, and Philippine police authorities, thanking all involved for their efforts in resolving the case.
The day before, President Lee had also expressed gratitude on X, stating, "Thank you to the police, NIS, and Ministry of Foreign Affairs. I appreciate the efforts of the Philippine authorities as well." He reiterated, "Protecting the lives and safety of our citizens is the most fundamental duty of the state, and we will do everything possible to ensure that our citizens living abroad can live more safely."
* This article has been translated by AI.
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