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NBI forms unit to probe smuggling of persons untested for COVID-19 into Metro Manila

Philippines | National

NBI forms unit to probe smuggling of persons untested for COVID-19 into Metro Manila

By Jeffrey Damicog

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has formed a unit to investigate reports of smuggling into Metro Manila of persons who have not been tested for the coronavirus disease (COVID-19).

National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)(MANILA BULLETIN)

NBI Deputy Director Ferdinand M. Lavin on Monday, April 12, said that NBI Officer-In-Charge Director Eric B. Distor has tasked investigators from the National Capital Region (NCR) Office to conduct the investigation.

Last April 7, Justice Secretary Menardo I. Guevarra said he will order the NBI to look into the concerns of Department of Transportation (DOTr) Secretary Arthur P. Tugade over the smuggling of persons who have not been tested for the COVID-19 which, he pointed out, has been contributing to the spread of the virus.

Tugade said he has received information that closed vans and trucks have been used to smuggle people through the borders of Metro Manila in exchange for cash.

He noted that those who have been smuggled into the metropolis were being fetched by commuter vans.

“These things must not be tolerated. Let’s move strong on this. This should be stopped as it compromises the entire nation,” Tugade said.

”All of our efforts in testing, isolation and treatment will go to waste because of this,” he pointed out.

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