Police in Quiapo, Manila seized smuggled white onions and fake cigarettes on Tuesday. The value of the onions is estimated at ₱1.35 million while the fake cigarettes are worth ₱600,000, for a total of ₱1.95 million.
Two trucks loaded with onions were caught on Carlos Palanca Street for seatbelt violation and false license plate. Upon inspection, it was found that one of the drivers did not have a license and was carrying fake documents. The cargo, which was supposed to be headed to Navotas and Bocaue, Bulacan, contained 1,200 sacks of onions from China.
According to the police, the drivers could be charged for violating the Consumer Act and other laws. They added that investigations are ongoing to catch more bigwigs behind the smuggling.
Meanwhile, a van was also caught on the same road with fake cigarettes after a company tipped it off. It was found to contain 8 boxes of fake cigarettes worth ₱600,000. The driver admitted that the products were fake and were intended to be sold in Metro Manila.
The police said those behind the operation should be held accountable because the product did not go through the correct tax. It should also be fair to legitimate businesses that pay the correct taxes and follow the law.
