Major Bust: P2 Million in Illicit Cigarettes Recovered in Cebu Operation

CEBU CITY – Cigarettes deemed illegal for not having the required graphic health warning labels were seized in Madridejos town, Cebu province on Wednesday, Jan. 21. A man, identified as Anthony, was arrested during the operation after he was caught in the act of selling the contraband estimated to be worth P2 million. Police said the suspect will be charged for violating Republic Act 10643, a law that requires graphic health warnings on tobacco products. The operation was conducted by the Cebu Provincial Police Office (CPPO) and Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Cebu Provincial Field Unit after they received a report that illegal cigarettes were being sold in Barangay Kangwayan. The suspect was arrested after selling cigarettes worth P25,000 to a police poseur-buyer. Police Col. Abubakar Mangelen Jr., chief of CPPO, said the illegal cigarettes were confiscated to ensure that laws are not violated and boost public health. “The seizure of these illicit cigarette products underscores our strong commitment to enforcing the law and safeguarding the public from goods that endanger health and deprive the government of rightful revenue. This operation exemplifies disciplined, professional, and accountable policing,” said Mangelen.