PNP photo shows the smuggled cigarettes.
CAUAYAN CITY, Isabela — Smuggled cigarettes valued at P82.7 million were recovered in a hotel in this city on Thursday, June 25.
Authorities received information regarding the alleged sale and distribution of smuggled cigarettes by several Chinese nationals here.
The Cauayan City Police Station, the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), and other government agencies conducted an operation based on a BIR mission order and found 202 boxes of various cigarette brands in two rooms.
Three individuals were arrested for their alleged involvement in the illegal activity.
The contraband was turned over to the BIR Regional Office 2 for safekeeping and proper disposition.
Police Regional Office-2 Director Police Birg. Gen Mariano C. Rodriguez reiterated their commitment to enforce the campaign against cigarette smuggling.
“Through the continuing police operations of our law enforcement personnel, we are determined to put an end to the importation of illegal cigarettes. These activities damage our economy and endanger the health of our people,” Rodriguez said.