P58M in fake cigarettes seized in Caloocan
Credit to Author: The Manila Times| Date: Wed, 29 Jan 2020 06:45:40 +0000
THE Bureau of Customs (BOC) has intercepted P58 million worth of fake and smuggled cigarettes in an operation in Caloocan City.
The operation was conducted on January 27 by the BoC in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard, local police and barangay personnel.
Armed with a Letter of Authority (LOA) and Mission Order (MO) signed by Commissioner Rey Leonardo Guerrero, the raiding team intercepted nine truckloads of cigarettes believed to be counterfeit and smuggled into the country.
Seized were a total of 1,670 master cases of cigarettes with an estimated value of P58.4 million.
The illegal products were identified to have brands such as Marvels, Fortune, D&B, Mighty and Jackpot cigarettes. These brands are believed to have a big market share in provinces where they are usually sold to unsuspecting patrons.
Further investigation is being conducted to ferret out those responsible for the operation. The apprehension is the latest in the bureau’s campaign to curb the illegal importation and manufacture of fake cigarettes. WILLIAM DEPASUPIL