Smuggled cigarettes seized in Mandaue

CEBU, Philippines — More than P5.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes was seized from an illegal trader, who was also arrested, during a joint entrapment operation in Barangay Looc, Mandaue City, on Friday afternoon, January 23.

The arrested suspect was identified as 52-year-old Hamedkhan Basang Angkaya, a native of Sta. Catalina, Zamboanga City, and currently residing at Plaridel Street, Sitio Baybayon, Barangay Looc, Mandaue City.

Confiscated from the accused was a box containing 50 reams of smuggled Alpha cigarettes, which are the subject of sale; 1,396 reams of King Bravo cigarettes; 150 reams of Famous cigarettes; and 435 reams of Alpha cigarettes.

Authorities seized a total of 2,031 reams of illicit cigarettes amounting to approximately P5,280,600, as well as the P15,000 boodle money. The seized items were brought to the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO) for proper legal disposition.

The buy-bust operation was led by the MCPO, in coordination with the Bureau of Customs-Collection District 7, Enforcement and Security Service, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group 7 -Mandaue City Field Unit, Regional Intelligence Division 7, Mandaue City Mobile Force Company, Mandaue City Police Station 5, and the National Bureau of Investigation - Mandaue City District.

Based on police reports, the raid was enforced at around 3:53 p.m, when the suspect was caught selling smuggled cigarettes to a police poseur-buyer, leading to his arrest.

Angkaya was placed under police custody, pending the formal filing of appropriate charges. He will be charged with violation of Republic Act 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act of 2016.

Following the successful operation, MCPO reiterated its commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling operations and upholding public safety through sustained law enforcement efforts and intensified inter-agency cooperation.

On the other hand, Police Regional Office 7 Director Police Brigadier General Redrico Maranan also issued a stern warning to individuals who are engaged in illegal trading operations in Central Visayas,

"This is a clear warning: selling or distributing smuggled cigarettes will not be tolerated. Violators will face arrest, prosecution, and forfeiture of goods. PRO7 will continue to remove illegal products from our communities and protect lawful trade." Maranan said in a statement.

He also urged all traders to comply with customs regulations to stop illegal trade, protect communities, and support lawful businesses across the region. — (FREEMAN)