NBI, BOC seize P960-M worth of smuggled cigarettes

MANILA, Philippines — The Bureau of Customs (BOC), in a joint operations with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI), carried out the inspection of P980-million worth of seized illicit cigarettes on Saturday, July 11.

Around 25 newly seized containers form part of the 59 containers intercepted by the two agencies in its continued anti-smuggling operations, the BOC reported in a press release.

The total estimated value of the confiscated illicit cigarettes amounted to P3 billion.

Article continues after this advertisement

The suspected containers were intercepted following an intelligence information developed and provided by the NBI, prompting the customs authorities to conduct inspection and enforcement, BOC stated.

FEATURED STORIES

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

NEWSINFO

It further said that remaining containers were secured and under government custody as enforcement and legal proceedings continue.

Customs Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno reaffirmed the BOC’s all-out war and campaign against smuggling and illicit cigarettes, ensuring that individuals and businesses will be held accountable.

READ: 5 Chinese held during raid on illicit tobacco warehouse in Nueva Ecija

“The BOC will not stop seizing illegal shipments. We will go after the entire supply chain and ensure that everyone involved is held accountable to the full extent of the law,” Nepomuceno, speaking Filipino, stated in the same press release.

Article continues after this advertisement

NBI Director Melvin Matibag, meanwhile, said to closely coordinate with the BOC to investigate and prosecute organized smuggling operations.

Meanwhile, a memorandum of agreement among the BOC, NBI, and its partner law enforcement agencies was also conducted during a joint press conference aimed at strengthening “intelligence-sharing, joint operations, and coordinated case build-up”.

Article continues after this advertisement

“In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s whole-of-government campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage, the BOC will continue to strengthen border security and pursue individuals and businesses engaged in illicit trade,” the BOC stated. /jpv

Your subscription could not be saved. Please try again.

Your subscription has been successful.