Bohol Businessman Apprehended in Illegal Cigarette Sting Operation
In a targeted enforcement action, a businessman involved in the illicit trade of cigarettes was arrested by police in Anda, Bohol. The operation, conducted on Thursday, April 16, 2026, at 1:15 PM, took place in Purok 1, Barangay Suba, Anda City, Bohol Province, resulting in the seizure of contraband valued at P56,000.
Details of the Arrest and Seized Items
The individual taken into custody has been identified as Severino Amper, also known as Jundi, a 45-year-old resident of Purok 3 in the same barangay. During the buy-bust operation, authorities confiscated 56 reams of Jhonhill cigarettes, with an estimated total value of P56,000. This arrest underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal activities in the region.
Police Campaign Against Illegal Cigarette Sales
The Anda Municipal Police Station spearheaded this operation as part of a broader campaign targeting violations of the Graphic Health Warnings Law, specifically Republic Act 10643. Police received intelligence reports indicating that a local businessman was a key source of smuggled cigarettes in the area. Prompt action was taken, including intensive monitoring, which confirmed the accuracy of the information and led to the successful execution of the buy-bust.
Legal Proceedings and Evidence Handling
All seized evidence is currently under the custody of the Anda Municipal Police Station. The suspect, Severino Amper, has been formally charged with a violation of Section 6 of Republic Act 10643, which mandates graphic health warnings on tobacco products. This case highlights the legal repercussions for those involved in the illegal cigarette trade, reinforcing the government's commitment to public health and regulatory compliance.
