Inquirer
PNP probes link between P2.6-B smuggled cigarettes in Malabon, Batangas
The Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) seized approximately P2.6 billion worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in separate operations in Malabon City and Batangas City.
The initial seizure in Malabon involved P1.5 billion worth of cigarettes discovered during an anti-carnapping operation when police chased suspects into a dockyard.
A separate seizure in Batangas City on December 31 uncovered around P1.1 billion worth of cigarettes, also during an anti-carnapping operation.
Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. has directed police units to investigate a possible link between the two seizures, suspecting a single smuggling network.
The PNP is coordinating with the Bureau of Customs, Bureau of Internal Revenue, and other agencies to trace the source, distribution routes, and financiers of the smuggled goods.
Authorities are exploring potential connections between these seizures and previous smuggling incidents.
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Philippine National Police Highway Patrol Group (PNP HPG) operatives seized over P120 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in San Simon, Pampanga.
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