The operation in Plaridel, Bulacan yesterday resulted in the arrest of three people and the seizure of smuggled cigarettes worth approximately P605 million.
Up to 8,647 master cases of imported cigarettes without BIR tax stamps and health warnings were found in a warehouse in Barangay Bulihan.
Those arrested were identified as Randy Ngo, Benjie Diocades and Joan Pagkalivagan. The operation began after residents reported suspicious activity in the area.
The anti-smuggling raid was conducted by personnel of the Bureau of Customs together with the Philippine Coast Guard, police and barangay officials.
Currently, authorities have three suspects in custody as the investigation into the large-scale smuggling operation continues.
