Cops seize P3 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Negros Oriental

Authorities are preparing charges against three men arrested in Basay, Negros Oriental after the seizure of P3.09 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes, the Philippine News Agency (PNA) reported.

The suspects, identified only by their aliases Ben, Joe, and Lom, were arrested during a joint operation on Nov. 1 that led to the confiscation of 54 master cases of Bosque cigarettes.

Police said the suspects may face complaints for alleged violations of the Graphic Health Warnings Law and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. The complaints will be filed before the Department of Trade and Industry because the value of the seized products is below the P10-million threshold for court action, according to Negros Oriental police spokesperson Capt. Stephen Jaynard Polinar, as cited by the PNA.

The operation was carried out by police and Bureau of Customs personnel following intelligence reports on the alleged transport of smuggled cigarettes from Santa Catalina, Negros Oriental to Hinobaan, Negros Occidental.