In a significant crackdown on illicit trade, authorities in Mandaue City have successfully seized more than 2,000 reams of smuggled cigarettes with an estimated value of P5.2 million. The operation, conducted on the afternoon of Friday, January 23, was led by the City Intelligence Unit (CIU) of the Mandaue City Police Office (MCPO), highlighting a coordinated effort to combat illegal activities in the region.
Details of the Buy-Bust Operation
The targeted operation took place at 3:53 PM along Plaridel Street in Sityo Baybayon, Barangay Looc, Mandaue City. Police Lieutenant Colonel Mark Gifter Sucalit spearheaded the mission, which resulted in the apprehension of the suspect identified as Hamedkhan Basang Angkaya, also known as "Hamed." The 52-year-old individual is a native of Sta. Catalina, Zamboanga City but currently resides in Barangay Looc, where the illegal goods were discovered.
Collaborative Efforts Among Agencies
This successful raid was made possible through the joint collaboration of multiple law enforcement agencies. Under the command of Police Colonel Cirilo Acosta, the CIU-MCPO worked closely with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) 7, Regional Intelligence Division (RID) 7, City Mobile Force Company, Police Station 5, and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) 7. This multi-agency approach underscores the commitment to enforcing customs regulations and curbing smuggling operations in the area.
Confiscated Items and Legal Implications
Authorities confiscated a total of 2,031 reams of various brands of smuggled cigarettes, including Alpha, King Bravo, and Famous. The operation was initiated after police received credible information about the sale of illegal cigarettes in the vicinity. Following thorough validation and confirmation, a swift buy-bust was launched, leading to the seizure of the contraband and the arrest of Angkaya.
The suspect now faces charges for violating Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). This law aims to modernize customs procedures and impose strict penalties on those involved in smuggling activities, emphasizing the government's stance against such illegal practices.
