The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a full investigation into the discovery of smuggled cigarettes worth ₱1.1 billion, uncovered during an anti-carnapping operation in Batangas City on New Year’s Eve.

Acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities are determined to identify and go after those behind the large-scale smuggling operation, noting its serious economic impact on government revenues.

The contraband was discovered after operatives of the PNP-Highway Patrol Group (HPG) tracked a red Hyundai Accent reported stolen in Las Piñas City. During the operation in Sitio Singko, Balete, Batangas City around noon on December 31, HPG personnel noticed several trucks and container vans, which were later found to be loaded with smuggled cigarettes.

No suspects were arrested during the Batangas operation. However, Nartatez said the PNP is coordinating with the Bureau of Customs and other concerned agencies to gather information and build airtight cases against those responsible. Follow-up operations are ongoing based on intelligence reports.

Nartatez personally inspected the seized contraband in Batangas City and ordered investigators to ensure that charges will be filed against the perpetrators.

Meanwhile, the PNP-HPG also reported the arrest of four individuals and the seizure of an estimated ₱1.5 billion worth of unregistered imported cigarettes in Malabon City on Wednesday night. The arrest followed a pursuit operation involving two motorcycle riders who ignored police orders to stop and were later cornered inside a logistics facility along M.H. Del Pilar Avenue.

Authorities discovered 18 containers of unregistered cigarettes inside the facility. Three individuals were arrested for failing to present proper documentation, while the seized goods were secured for further investigation. (PNA)