Photo courtesy of PNP
Seven people were arrested after police seized alleged counterfeit cigarettes worth Php 13.4 million in Gingoog City, Misamis Oriental.
The operation was conducted on July 12 in Barangay San Luis by personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group’s Misamis Oriental and Camiguin field unit, with support from other police units.
Authorities said the suspects included six men and one woman, all of legal age.
Police recovered 335 master cases of assorted cigarettes believed to be counterfeit.
Three vehicles allegedly used to transport the tobacco products were also impounded during the operation.
The suspects may face charges for alleged violations of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines and the Graphic Health Warnings Law.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said the police would continue operations against groups involved in illegal trade to protect consumers and legitimate businesses.
The PNP said the seizure was part of its intensified campaign against illicit trade and other economic crimes.
