PNP seizes P2.4 million smuggled cigarettes in Palawan

CAMP VICENTE LIM, Laguna, Philippines — Police seize P2.4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested a man in a sting at Brooke’s Point in Palawan on Thursday.

Brig. Gen. Jovencio Badua Jr., Mimaropa police regional director, said operatives arrested a 50-year-old trader, identified only as Navi, after selling P40,000 worth of smuggled cigarettes to a police agent in Barangay Calasaguin.

Police confiscated 109 master cases of foreign branded cigarettes with a street value of P2,452,500.

“This successful operation reflects our firm resolve to dismantle illegal trading activities that undermine public health, deprive the government of rightful revenues and threaten community safety,” Badua said.

Charges of violating Republic Act 10643 or the Graphic Health Warnings law and Provincial Ordinance 3159 were filed against the suspect.