FAKE CIGARETTES. Criminal Investigation and Detection Group-Mandaue field office head, Capt. Nigel Sanoy shows some of the PHP1.9 million worth of counterfeit cigarettes seized during a raid at his warehouse in Carbon Public Market in Cebu City on Wednesday (June 21, 2023). A 40-year-old Chinese was arrested while his companion eluded the arrest. (PNA)
CEBU CITY – A total of PHP1.9 million worth of counterfeit cigarettes were confiscated during an operation on Wednesday at this capital’s local trading hub Carbon Public Market.
Capt. Nigel Sanoy, head of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Mandaue office, said 27 boxes and 222 rims of cigarettes of various brands were seized during the operation that also led to the arrest of a 40-year-old Chinese national.
The cigarettes bear the brands Mighty Green, Mighty Red, Winston, Marlboro, Jackpot, Astro, New Orleans, Canon, Union, Fortune Green and United.
The authorities identified the suspect as Allen Lim, who does not hold any passport but temporarily residing at the Carbon market area in Barangay Ermita here.
Another suspect, identified as Marilyn Lim, eluded arrest. The authorities could not ascertain the relationship between the two suspects.
Lawyers from Phillip Morris Fortune Tobacco Company and Japan Tobacco International accompanied the operatives when operatives raided the warehouse of the suspects.
Violation of Sections 172, 263 and 265 of the National Internal Revenue Code of 1997, Republic Act 8293, or Intellectual Property Code and Republic Act 10643 or Graphic Warning Law will be filed against the suspects. (PNA)
