The Bureau of Customs (BOC) has recently seized P6.7 million worth of smuggled vehicles.
In a statement yesterday, the BOC said its port in Cagayan de Oro has foiled the smuggling attempt where the vehicles were concealed as used auto spare parts.
The shipment was found to contain one unit of a used 1985 Suzuki Jimny, one unit of a used 2001 Mercedes-Benz G Class, one unit of a used 2003 Toyota LC Prado and one unit of a used 1995 Toyota LC Prado.
The vehicles were assessed with aggregate landed cost, including duties, taxes and other charges.
The shipment arrived at the Sub-Port of Mindanao Container Terminal from Japan and was declared to contain 55 packages of used auto spare parts.
After receiving derogatory information, an alert order was issued for a full physical examination of the subject shipment.
A warrant of seizure and detention has then been issued against the subject shipment for violation of Section 1400 in relation to Section 1113 (f) and (l) 3, 4 and 5 of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
“The prompt measures undertaken by the Port of CDO are truly commendable and will serve as a clear reminder for transnational crime syndicates that we in the BOC are taking our job seriously with unwavering dedication in protecting the integrity of the nation’s supply chain,” Customs Commissioner Bienvenido Rubio said.