Manila: Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operatives seized over PHP307.68 million worth of imported sugar during raids on three warehouses in Meycauayan City on Friday, reports Philippine News Agency.
According to a statement issued Saturday by Colonel Ranie P. Hachuela, officer-in-charge of the CIDG, authorities found around 95,568 sacks of sugar stored inside warehouses located in an industrial park in Barangay Perez.
Col. Hachuela said keeping such a large quantity of agricultural goods without proper documentation is illegal, as it can disrupt market prices and supply.
The raid was carried out by CIDG-Bulacan with support from other police units. The Department of Agriculture’s Inspectorate Enforcement and the Sugar Regulatory Administration also assisted in the operation.
“This operation shows our strong commitment to stopping the smuggling of agricultural goods,” Col. Hachuela said. “By confiscating this huge amount of sugar, we’ve helped stop hoarding and protected the economy from harm.”
Authorities are now preparing to file charges under Republic Act 10845, also known as the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016, against those found responsible.
