A high-value anti-smuggling operation led to the confiscation of an estimated Php28 Million worth of smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of two suspects on July 14, 2025, in Barangay Hugo Perez, Trece Martires City, Cavite.
The buy-bust operation was conducted by personnel of the Regional Special Operations Unit 4A (RSOU 4A), led by Police Major Francis Albert E. Fortunado, Chief, RSOU 4A, in close coordination with the Trece Martires Component City Police Station (CCPS), under the supervision of Police Lieutenant Colonel Dennis A. Villanueva, Chief of Police; the Bureau of Customs, represented by Intelligence Officer III Mr. Troy S. Tan; and the Revenue District Office 9A–CABAMIRO, headed by Atty. Karl Cabili.
The arrested individuals were identified as alias “Jamir,” a resident of Barangay Milagrosa, Carmona, Cavite, and alias “Bayaw,” a Chinese national residing in Barangay Hugo Perez, Trece Martires City.
Confiscated from the suspects were approximately 800 master cases of various smuggled cigarette brands, Php140,000 in marked buy-bust money, over Php1.4 Million in cash, and other items believed to be linked to the illegal operation including bank receipts, a Toyota Hi-Ace van, and five-winged container vans used for transport and distribution. The total estimated value of the seized contraband amounted to nearly Php28 Million.
Police Brigadier General Jack L. Wanky, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 4A, lauded the successful inter-agency coordination and the tireless efforts of all personnel involved in the operation.
“This accomplishment is a direct result of strategic intelligence work and strong collaboration among law enforcement agencies. It sends a clear message that illegal trade has no place in CALABARZON. We remain committed to protecting our people from health risks and economic harm,” he said.
As of this writing, the suspects are in police custody and will face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) and Republic Act No. 10643 (Graphic Health Warning Law).
With continued vigilance and strengthened inter-agency synergy, the Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Police General Nicolas D. Torre III, reaffirms its commitment to dismantle illegal operations, safeguard public welfare, and defend the country’s economic interests against criminal exploitation.
