Quezon city: Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operatives have arrested an individual for trading PHP1.3 million worth of alleged illicit cigarettes during an operation in Quezon City. In a statement released Thursday, CIDG acting Director Brig. Gen. Romeo Macapaz said the suspect, identified only as Angelo, was arrested for allegedly trading counterfeit and trademark-infringing cigarettes at the Luzon Extension, Mendoza Street, Barangay Sangandaan, Quezon City on Tuesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, the operation was part of efforts to run after those engaged in the manufacture and trade of counterfeit items and illicit trading of tobacco products across the country. Seized were six master cases of Marlboro Red, five master cases of Fortune Menthol Green, and 40 reams of Chesterfield Red cigarettes, all worth about PHP1.3 million.

The suspect was charged before the National Prosecution Service with violation of Republic Act 8293 (Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines) for the unauthorized use of a registered trademark or a confusingly similar mark in commerce, which may cause deception or confusion among consumers.

In a related development, Macapaz said CIDG - Negros Oriental, together with territorial police units, conducted a buy-bust operation in Barangay Tangculogan, Bais City, Negros Oriental on June 30, which resulted in the arrest of alleged gunrunner 'Elmer.' Seized from him were four unlicensed firearms - a caliber .45 pistol, a caliber .357 revolver, a caliber .38 revolver, and a caliber .22 revolver.

Elmer is allegedly involved in the illegal firearms trade within the Negros Island Region.