Six persons were apprehended Friday during an anti-smuggling operation conducted by the maritime police off the waters of Barangay Tinitian, Roxas town, northern Palawan.
The 2nd Special Operations Unit-PNP Maritime Group (2nd SOU-MG) said they were arrested on February 21 under Special Task Team “PLUTUS” while transporting and attempting to distribute smuggled cigarettes estimated to be worth ₱5.8 million aboard the motor launch MJ Princess Ahrni.
Authorities found 93 master cases of “Fort” white cigarettes that were missing the necessary graphic health warning labels, thereby breaching Republic Act 10643, also known as the Tobacco Regulation Act.
The confiscated items, thought to have been brought in unlawfully, resulted in charges under Section 1401 of Republic Act 10863, known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, which imposes penalties for illegal importation and exportation.
The apprehended suspects and seized items were transported to the 2nd SOU-MG Headquarters for documentation and legal proceedings.
2nd SOU-MG assured that suitable charges will be instituted in accordance with the law to mitigate smuggling, safeguard enterprises, and uphold public health rules.
