By Chris V. Panganiban
Inquirer Mindanao Bureau
SAN FRANCISCO, Agusan del Sur — Police in Caraga arrested 10 people and seized nearly P792,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in a series of operations across the region from Sept. 20 to 27, authorities said.
Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) Director Brig. Gen. Rolindo M. Suguilon said the operations were part of the regional police office’s continuing campaign against the illegal trade and movement of smuggled tobacco products.
Among those arrested was a 40-year-old man identified only as alias “Norsan,” a resident of Kawit 2, Barangay 1, Dapa, Surigao del Norte.
Norsan was arrested on Sept. 26 in Barangay 7, Poblacion, Dapa, during a joint buy-bust operation conducted by personnel of the PRO 13 Regional Intelligence Division and the Dapa Municipal Police Station.
Police said they confiscated 129 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes, with an estimated market value of P161,250, from the suspect.
The police did not identify the brands of the seized cigarettes or disclose details of the other nine suspects in the statement.
Suguilon said the police would continue operations against smuggling, which authorities say undermines legitimate businesses and deprives the government of revenues from taxes and duties.
“PNP Caraga remains resolute in its fight against smuggling. We will sustain and intensify our efforts to disrupt the illegal movement of smuggled products, hold those involved accountable, and protect our communities and legitimate businesses from its harmful effects,” Suguilon said.
He also urged residents to report information about suspected smuggling activities to the police.
The seized cigarettes and the arrested suspects will be subjected to appropriate investigation and legal proceedings, police said.
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