Authorities from the Police Regional Office 7 are conducting a thorough investigation into a seized box of cigarettes suspected to be counterfeit, following a raid on a factory located in Lapu-Lapu City on Friday, April 10, 2026. The operation resulted in the confiscation of an estimated P1.1 billion worth of fake cigarettes, marking a significant blow to illegal manufacturing activities in the region.
Major Seizure and Arrests
During the raid, police served a search warrant issued by the court at a warehouse in Barangay Basak, Lapu-Lapu City. There, they discovered thousands of boxes of cigarettes believed to have falsified tax stamps, along with cigarette-making machinery and raw materials. Four Chinese nationals, suspected of operating the illicit factory, were taken into custody and are currently detained by PRO 7. Charges are being prepared against them as part of the ongoing legal process.
Police Crackdown on Illegal Operations
Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr., the Chief of the Philippine National Police, emphasized that this operation underscores the police force's rigorous campaign across the Philippines to dismantle illegal manufacturing activities that evade tax payments to the government. "We will not overlook such a large-scale operation. This deception is clear, not only against the government but also against the citizens. We will pursue those who believe they can conceal themselves behind warehouses and illegal schemes," stated Nartatez.
He further urged the public, including business owners, to refrain from supporting such illegal endeavors and to assist in monitoring activities to ensure prompt attention from authorities. Nartatez reassured that operations targeting counterfeit and illegal goods will continue as part of the PNP's Focused Agenda, particularly under Enhanced Managing Police Operations. This initiative aligns with the directive from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to strengthen law enforcement efforts, aiming to protect legitimate industries from unfair competition and fraud.
