By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) has arrested two people for selling agricultural products in Taguig City.
In a statement on Tuesday, CIDG acting chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III identified the two suspects as alias Mary Ann and Israel.
He said the two were arrested during an entrapment operation conducted by CIDG Regional Field Unit (RFU) National Capital Region in coordination with the Southern Police District (SPD), Department of Agriculture, Bureau of Plant Industry (BPI), and Taguig City Veterinary Office at Lucky Farmers Fruits and Grocery Store Veterans Road, Brgy. Western Bicutan, Taguig City around 6 p.m. Monday.
The operatives were able to purchase one white imported scallion and upon verification, the BPI said the suspects were unauthorized to distribute and engage in the sale of said agricultural products.
The operation stemmed from reports of rampant selling of imported agricultural products utilized by the suspects without authorization from the concerned government agencies.
Torre said the suspects were brought to the CIDG RFU NCR along with the confiscated pieces of evidence for documentation and proper disposition.
The charges for violation of Republic Act 7394 of “The Consumer Act of the Philippines” are also being prepared against them.
“The CIDG is steadfast in its resolve to stop the illicit activity that undermines our economy,” Torre said.
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Rommel Francisco Marbil earlier vowed to boost campaign against smuggling, hoarding, and profiteering of agricultural products, particularly rice. (PNA)
