Photo courtesy of PRO-3
Authorities in Central Luzon arrested dozens of suspects and confiscated illicit tobacco products worth about Php 4.9 million during a weeklong crackdown, police said Monday.
The operations were carried out from April 6 to 12 across several provinces, according to the Police Regional Office in the region.
Officials said the campaign led to the arrest of 27 individuals linked to the distribution and sale of smuggled and counterfeit cigarettes.
Thousands of illegal tobacco items were seized, including bulk cases, reams, and individual packs.
Police said a total of 220 operations were conducted as part of an intensified drive against unlawful tobacco trade.
Most of the confiscations were recorded in Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Pampanga, where authorities focused on disrupting supply networks.
Regional police director Jess Mendez said the operations followed directives to curb illegal trade activities that affect both the economy and public safety.
He added that law enforcers would continue strengthening intelligence and coordination efforts to prevent the spread of contraband goods in the region.
