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Manila Bulletin devider Business devider P8.5-billion tax evasion uncovered in BIR's largest anti-illicit cigarette operation

P8.5-billion tax evasion uncovered in BIR's largest anti-illicit cigarette operation

Published Nov 14, 2024 03:05 am

The Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) has conducted a large-scale raid against an illicit cigarette factory and three warehouses, uncovering P8.5 billion in tax liabilities.

In a statement, BIR Commissioner Romeo D. Lumagui Jr., said the simultaneous raid last Nov. 6 targeted a factory in Bulacan and three warehouses in Valenzuela City, all suspected of being part of the same criminal enterprise.

"The BIR will not stop raiding factories and warehouses involved in illicit cigarettes," Lumagui said.

"A large criminal enterprise with a factory in Bulacan and three warehouses in Valenzuela City was simultaneously raided. This is the largest operation of the BIR against illicit cigarettes for 2024,” he added.

The raid resulted in the seizure of over 11.5 million packs of illicit cigarettes, along with raw materials, cigarette making machines, and cigarette packing machines.

Six Chinese nationals were also apprehended during the operation.

The perpetrators are facing charges for violating several provisions of the National Internal Revenue Code, including unlawful pursuit of business, unlawful possession of articles subject to excise tax, unlawful possession of manufacturing equipment, and unlawful possession of cigarette paper and filter tips.

This latest raid is part of the BIR's ongoing efforts to crack down on illicit cigarette operations in the country. The agency has vowed to continue its campaign against tax evasion and smuggling, which deprive the government of much-needed revenue.

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Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) BIR Commissioner illicit cigarettes Romeo D. Lumagui Jr.
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