The Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) inspected on Saturday, July 11, 25 seized containers loaded with illicit cigarettes valued at around P980 million at Gothong Wharf in Mandaue City, Cebu.
The shipment was intercepted following intelligence information provided by the NBI, according to the BOC.
The 25 containers are part of a larger seizure involving 59 containers of illicit cigarettes with an estimated total value of more than P3 billion. The remaining containers are currently secured in other government-controlled locations.
During the inspection, the two agencies reiterated their commitment to intensify efforts against smuggling and illicit trade as part of the administration’s campaign against economic sabotage.
BOC Commissioner Ariel Nepomuceno said the agency would pursue cases against individuals and businesses involved in the illegal importation and distribution of illicit goods.
“Hindi kami maaareglo (We won’t entertain negotiations) when it comes to the filing of cases against people and businesses involved in smuggling and illicit trade,” Nepomuceno said during a press conference.
He added that the BOC would continue confiscating illegal shipments and pursue those involved throughout the supply chain.
“Hindi titigil ang BOC sa pagkumpiska ng mga iligal na kargamento. Hahabulin natin ang buong supply chain at sisiguruhing mapanagot ang lahat ng sangkot sa ilalim ng buong puwersa ng batas (The BOC won’t stop going after illegal shipments. We will run after the entire supply chain and make sure all those responsible will be made accountable under the law),” he said.
NBI Director Melvin Matibag said the agency is working to strengthen coordination with the BOC and other law enforcement units in addressing smuggling operations.
Matibag said the NBI will soon enter into a memorandum of agreement with the BOC and other partner agencies to improve intelligence sharing, joint operations, and coordinated case development.
The inspection in Mandaue City followed the agencies’ joint efforts to track and intercept shipments believed to be connected to illicit cigarette trading.
Both the BOC and NBI said they will continue working together to identify and hold accountable those involved in smuggling activities.
Photo courtesy of BOC PH
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