Photo courtesy of Philippine National Police/Facebook.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Sunday the confiscation of more than Php 12 million worth of laptops and mobile phones and the arrest of five individuals during an operation in the Subic Bay Freeport Zone.
The raid was carried out on Feb. 5 at Subic Bay Gateway Park following months of monitoring by police units assigned to track illegal trade activities.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) led the operation with support from police units in Olongapo City and Zambales.
Authorities said the suspects were found in possession of large volumes of refurbished electronic devices allegedly intended for export but sold in the local market.
Seized items included about 2,400 laptops of various brands, such as Dell, Acer, HP, and Lenovo, as well as 65 mobile phones.
Police also recovered documents and records believed to be related to the sale and distribution of the devices.
Investigators said the operation stemmed from reports received in October 2025 that the group was engaged in unauthorized selling of refurbished electronics.
Authorities noted that the devices were allegedly sold without the required permits, including approval from the National Telecommunications Commission (NTC).
Police said such activities deprive the government of revenues and place legitimate businesses at a disadvantage.
Cases are being prepared against the suspects for violations of consumer protection and trade laws, while efforts continue to locate another individual believed to be connected to the operation.
