By Jason De Asis
CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga – Authorities arrested 27 individuals and confiscated nearly PHP4.9 million worth of smuggled and counterfeit tobacco products in a series of anti-smuggling operations conducted across Central Luzon from April 6 to 12, police said Monday.
In a report, the Police Regional Office-Central Luzon (PRO-3) said the weeklong operations resulted in the seizure of thousands of illicit tobacco products, including master cases, reams and individual packs of cigarettes.
A total of 220 police operations were conducted throughout the region as part of the intensified campaign against illegal tobacco trade.
Most of the confiscated items were recovered in the provinces of Bulacan, Nueva Ecija and Pampanga, where enforcement efforts focused on disrupting the distribution of contraband products.
PRO-3 Director Brig. Gen. Jess Mendez said the intensified crackdown was carried out in line with the directives from the Department of the Interior and Local Government and the Philippine National Police to pursue illegal trade operations that undermine the economy and public safety.
“This is about protecting our communities and ensuring that those who profit from illegal trade are held accountable,” Mendez said in the report.
He assured PRO-3 will continue to strengthen intelligence-driven operations and coordination with other law enforcement units to curb the spread of smuggled tobacco products in the region. (PNA)
