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DOTr seeks NBI probe on seized Bugatti sports cars

Philippines | National

DOTr seeks NBI probe on seized Bugatti sports cars

By Martin Sadongdong

Bugatti Chiron .jpg — (File photo)

The Department of Transportation (DOTr) has sought the assistance of the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) in probing the alleged smuggling of two Bugatti Chiron sports cars that were surrendered to authorities last month.

In a letter dated February 29, DOTr Secretary Jaime J. Bautista requested NBI Director Merardo De Limos to help the department in conducting possible criminal and administrative probe over the alleged illegal importation of the luxury vehicles, which were found to be registered with the Land Transportation Office (LTO), and determine the liability of those involved.

"The LTO-National Capital Region already investigated the matter and it was discovered that documentary and procedural irregularities appear to surround the eventual registration of these luxury vehicles," Bautista said on Friday, March 1.

The transport chief already tasked the DOTR's Assistant Secretary for Road Transport and Non-Infrastructure and Special Action and Intelligence Committee for Transportation to check on the LTO-NCR’s registration process for luxury vehicles.

Last month, pictures of red and blue Bugatti Chiron sports cars circulated on social media after they were apparently seen in major roads in Metro Manila.

This prompted the NBI and the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to search for the luxury vehicles as they were reportedly imported into the country without the payment of the appropriate taxes.

On February 9, the owner of the red Bugatti Chiron surrendered the sports car to the BOC. The owner of the blue Bugatti Chiron followed through on February 21.

Related Tags

Department of Transportation National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) Land Transportation Office DOTr Bugatti Chiron

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