SANTA MARIA, Bulacan — The Philippine National Police (PNP) seized an estimated P8.4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested a suspect during an anti-smuggling operation in this town, as police authorities continue to strengthen enforcement against the illicit movement of goods.
Personnel of the PNP Highway Patrol Group, through the Regional Highway Patrol Unit-NCR, conducted the operation on Wednesday (August 19), at a warehouse along Diapera Street, Barangay Pulong Buhangin.
The operation resulted in the recovery of 225 boxes of cigarettes believed to have been smuggled into the country.
One adult Filipino suspect was arrested, while two other persons identified only by the aliases “Jocelyn” and “Alex” remain at large. The arrested suspect underwent physical examination and was subsequently turned over to the investigating unit for documentation and appropriate legal proceedings.
Chief, PNP Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said the operation demonstrates the PNP’s continuing effort to act on information that can help prevent illegal activities from reaching communities and legitimate businesses.
“Kung may sapat na impormasyon at may nakikitang paglabag sa batas, trabaho nating umaksyon. Pero kasabay nito, dapat maayos ang proseso at malinaw ang ebidensiya. Iyan ang paraan para maging matibay ang kaso at makamit ang tamang resulta,” PGen Nartatez said.
The operation forms part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which calls for responsive, intelligence-informed, and coordinated police action while respecting established legal procedures. (UnliNews Online)
