CAMP BGEN VICENTE P. LIM, Calamba City — A 48-year-old man was arrested after authorities found in his possession P2.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a buy-bust on Tuesday afternoon in Barangay Biga, Calatagan, Batangas.
The raid was carried out by operatives from the Regional Intelligence Division 4A, Regional Special Operations Unit 4A and the Calatagan Municipal Police Station (MPS).
Batangas Police Provincial Office (PRO) director Col. Jack Malinao Jr. identified the suspect as alias "Alwin" of Barangay Biga, Calatagan, Batangas.
The raiders found from the suspect 142 boxes of alleged smuggled cigarettes, classified as illicit whites by the Bureau of Internal Revenue.
PRO Calabarzon regional director Brig. Gen. Paul Kenneth Lucas commended the operatives for their successful operation.
"This serves as a reminder that today's victory against smuggling is vital," said Lucas.
"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," he added.
Meanwhile, the arrested suspect is currently under the custody of Calatagan MPS for profiling. The suspect is now facing charges for Violation of Sections 144, 262 and 263 of Republic Act 8424, or the National Internal Revenue Code.