In a bold move to curb the spread of illegal trade, authorities from Police Regional Office 4A (PRO4A), under the leadership of Regional Director PBGen Paul Kenneth T. Lucas, conducted a targeted buy-bust operation, resulting to the capture of a high-value suspect and the confiscation of smuggled cigarettes.
Joint operatives from the Regional Intelligence Division 4A, Regional Special Operations Unit 4A and the Calatagan Municipal Police Station (MPS), successfully arrested a cigarette smuggler and seized over Php2.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a buy-bust operation at around 2:30 PM on October 15, 2024, in Barangay Biga, Calatagan, Batangas.
PMaj John Conrad A. Villanueva, Officer-in-Charge of the Calatagan Municipal Police Station, described the operation as meticulously planned, leading to the arrest of a suspect known as Alias “Alwin”, and the seizure of 142 boxes of contraband cigarettes—52 boxes labeled as D&J and 90 boxes labeled as Bosqu, both restricted under the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) guidelines. Officers confiscated the goods with a total value of Php2,212,000, including one marked Php1,000 bill and 31 pieces of boodle money, as evidences in the ongoing case.
Currently in police custody, “Alwin” faces charges under Sections 144, 262 and 263 of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC) for cigarette smuggling violations. Authorities are actively pursuing additional leads to dismantle other smuggling networks in the area.
“This serves as a reminder that today’s victory against smuggling is vital. We will relentlessly pursue those who undermine our laws and exploit our communities. Our police force will continue to fulfill its duties and ensure that criminals face the full weight of the law,” PBGen Lucas stated.
The Police Regional Office 4A’s commitment to maintaining a safe and law-abiding community was exemplified in this successful operation. Once again, they have proven that the fight against crime is strong and steadfast. With each measure taken to secure public safety, the Philippine National Police, under the leadership of Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, Chief PNP, reinforces its dedication to service, upholding peace and security for every Filipino under the rule of law toward a Bagong Pilipinas!
