Ni Marie F. Fulgarinas
SAN VICENTE, Philippines — Matagumpay ang ikinasang joint operation ng mga awtoridad nitong Lunes, Pebrero 19, sa Barangay Calategas, bayan ng Narra, Palawan, laban sa iligal na pagpasok ng mga sigarilyo sa lalawigan.
Sa ulat ng Coast Guard District Palawan, iba’t ibang uri ng mga iligal na sigarilyo ang nasabat sa lugar na nagkakahalaga ng 1.4 milyong piso.
“Forty master-cases containing illicit white cigarettes, including popular brands such as New Berlin, Fort White, and Fort Red, were confiscated during the operation. In addition to the significant cigarette haul, authorities also seized a white L-300 van with plate number DAP 2972 and conduction sticker B9 S336,” pahayag ng ahensya.
Dagdag ng ahensya, ang operasyon ay binubuo ng Coast Guard Intelligence Group Palawan (CGIG-PAL), Coast Guard Counterintelligence Unit Palawan (CGCIU-PAL), Philippine Tobacco Institute (PTI), Bantay Palawan Task Force (BPTF), Narra Anti-Crime Task Force (NACTF), at Narra Municipal Police Station (MPS) na ang pangunahing layunin ay mapigilan ang pagdagsa ng mga smuggled cigarettes sa rehiyon.
“Authorities are actively pursuing the apprehension of the fleeing suspect(s), who will face appropriate charges in accordance with the law. The confiscated evidence has been securely transported to MPS Narra for custody and further legal proceedings.
This collaborative effort underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect public health and maintain the integrity of border security. The success of this operation sends a clear message to those involved in illegal activities that such actions will not be tolerated. Authorities remain dedicated to working tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of the community,” dagdag ng ahensya.