PERSONNEL of the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) and the PNP seized P20.43 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during raids in Mandaue City, Cebu on Wednesday, a police report said.
The Central Visayas Police Regional Office said two were arrested during the raids conducted at Espina Compound, Sitio Sta. Cruz and at A.S. Fortuna Extension corner A. Del Rosario Street, both in Barangay Guizo.
It said BIR Central Visayas requested police assistance against the “illicit smuggling of counterfeit cigarettes,” leading to the conduct of the joint operations.
“The haul included 334 master cases and 167,765 packs of cigarettes, along with an additional five boxes containing 2,500 packs, collectively valued at approximately P20,431,800,” the regional police said in a statement.
Among the cigarette brands confiscated were Alpen Green, Champion Green, United Menthol Green, Victor Agila Menthol Green, Trojen Green, Rosean Gold, Alpha Red, and D and J Premium.
“This operation decisively addressed the escalating threat of smuggling, which undermines legitimate businesses and poses a serious risk to public health. We are committed to safeguarding our communities and strengthening the integrity of our economy,” said Central Visayas police director Brig. Gen. Redrico Maranan.
Those arrested and the seized evidence are currently under the custody of the PNP’s Regional Special Project Unit 7 for processing and filing of charges for violation of Republic Act 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
