By Jennifer P. Rendon
Two men were arrested for allegedly selling fake cigarettes during a buy-bust operation on the night of August 9 in Barangay Mantulang, Passi City, Iloilo.
The suspects, identified as Norodin Amerol, 33, of Barangay San Fernando, San Jose, Antique, and Esmaiting Macasindel, 30, of Barangay Cadayonan, Poona Piagapo, Lanao Del Norte, were apprehended by members of the Regional Maritime Unit (RMU) 6, in coordination with the Iloilo Maritime Police Station, Passi City Police Station, and the Bureau of Customs – Region 6.
The operation led to the seizure of three reams each of Chesterfield and Canon cigarettes, as well as two master cases of Modern cigarettes, two master cases of New Orleans cigarettes, a master case of Millions Menthol cigarettes, two master cases of Canon Menthol cigarettes, and a master case containing 47 reams of Chesterfield cigarettes. Authorities also confiscated two mobile phones, a sling bag, boodle money, and a Bajaj motorcycle.
Colonel Ervin Glenn Provido, RMU-6 regional director, estimated the value of the counterfeit cigarettes at around P400,000.
Authorities organized the buy-bust operation after receiving reports that the suspects had been trading fake cigarettes in the area.
It is believed that the suspects sourced their supply from Southern Philippines, and the contraband is likely smuggled.
The two suspects are currently detained and will face charges for violating Section 1401 (Unlawful Importation or Exportation) of Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
