Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized around P6.2 million worth of smuggled plywood following the arrest of a foreigner in an operation in San Simon, Pampanga.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio. C. Nartatez, Jr. said the large cache of smuggled plywood was monitored during the intelligence build-up amid the intensified anti-smuggling operations in the country.
During the intelligence-gathering, CIDG operatives came across a tip about suspected smuggled products in Barangay Dela Paz in San Simon town.
Armed with a search warrant issued by a local court, CIDG operatives, backed by the local police force, swooped down on the area and discovered 2,752 pieces of 18mm Crocodile Phenolic Plywood and 4,272 pieces of 12mm Crocodile Phenolic Plywood.
The same operation resulted in the arrest of a Chinese national and the confiscation of an improvised shotgun (“sumpak”) and four 12-gauge slugs.
“This enforcement action underscores the police force’s determination to uphold public safety while ensuring that violators of Philippine laws are held accountable,” said Nartatez.
He emphasized the importance of decisive enforcement in safeguarding communities.
“This operation proves our commitment to protect the public from unlawful activities that compromise safety and fairness in trade,” he said.