Talisay City: The Land Transportation Office (LTO) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) have confiscated 65 right-hand drive vehicles in a raid in Talisay City, Cebu. LTO Chief, Assistant Secretary Vigor Mendoza II, and Special Envoy on Transnational Crime Ambassador Markus Lacanilao led the operation with the support of NBI agents.
According to Philippines News Agency, Mendoza stated that the operation stemmed from confirmed intelligence reports indicating illegal activities at an auto shop. A female Peruvian national was taken into custody, identified as the operator of the raided shop in Talisay City. Mendoza highlighted Lacanilao's involvement due to the participation of foreign nationals in the illegal importation, assembly, and sale of right-hand drive vehicles.
The operation in Cebu City followed a similar raid in Quezon City and three auto shops in Davao City. Initial investigations revealed that the right-hand drive vehicles were imported and then assembled in the country before being sold. Mendoza also initiated an investigation into an LTO office in Mindanao for allegedly facilitating the registration of these illegal vehicles.
Mendoza emphasized accountability, citing orders from DOTr Secretary Vince Dizon, and assured a thorough investigation to identify all parties involved. Republic Act 8506, which prohibits the registration and operation of right-hand drive vehicles in the country, was referenced as the legal basis for these actions.
