A joint operation by the Police Regional Office (PRO-6) and the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) resulted in the seizure of more than P25 million worth of illicit cigarettes and the arrest of a 42-year-old woman in Estancia, Iloilo, on June 25.
The suspect, identified only as alias “Jelyn,” a self-employed resident of the town, was apprehended by authorities at around 3:15 p.m.
According to law enforcement reports, the joint operation yielded 30,098 packs of assorted contraband cigarettes. The bulk of the seized packs came from Barangay Zone I (28,650), while the rest from Barangay Lumbia (1,448)
The BIR and PRO-6 estimated the total value of the seized items at P25,072,868.17, including computed tax penalties.
The raid was executed by virtue of a search warrant issued by the Executive Judge of Branch 71, 6th Judicial Region, alongside revenue and mission orders issued by the Regional Director of BIR Revenue Region No. 11.
The suspect is currently in police custody and is facing charges for violating Section 263 of Republic Act No. 11467, in relation to the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, as amended. The law penalizes the unlawful possession or removal of articles subject to excise tax without proper payment.
Police Brigadier General Randulf T. Tuaño, PRO-6 acting regional director, commended the operating teams and partner agencies for the successful crackdown, emphasizing the severe economic consequences of smuggling.
“This accomplishment reflects the strength of intelligence-driven and coordinated law enforcement action against illegal trade,” he said.
“Illicit cigarettes deprive the government of lawful revenues, undermine legitimate businesses, and expose the public to unregulated products,” Tuaño added.
The region’s top cop also appealed to local communities to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities involving the manufacturing, transport, storage, or distribution of contraband.
“Public cooperation remains vital in our campaign against unlawful activities. Through timely information and strong partnership, we can better protect our economy, safeguard public welfare, and maintain a Safer Western Visayas,” Tuaño said.IMT
