Bi±an city: The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) has arrested three individuals and seized more than PHP32 million worth of illegal vape products in a raid in Bi±an City, Laguna. NBI Director Jaime Santiago identified the suspects as Kert Simbajon, Javier Dirampatun, and Romeo Cada, who were apprehended by the NBI - Special Task Force (NBI-STF).
According to Philippines News Agency, operatives uncovered a significant importation, sale, and distribution of illegal vape products in Cavite and Laguna. They were able to identify the suspects and obtain contact information, business details, and social media accounts through cybercrime monitoring and surveillance efforts.
Agents of NBI-STF conducted a surveillance and test-buy operation at Hype VapeShop located at Bacoor Boulevard, corner NIA Road in the City of Bacoor, Cavite. The establishment was found trading vape products without the necessary Bureau of Internal Revenue tax stamps and Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registration.
The subsequent operation led by the NBI-STF and DTI representatives resulted in the seizure of 40,500 pieces of vape products worth PHP31.99 million and 3,880 pieces of vape pods worth PHP640,200 at a storage facility located in Laguna.
The suspects are facing charges for violating Section 4(d) and 18 of Republic Act (RA) 11900 (Vaporized Nicotine and Non-Nicotine Products Regulation Act), and Section 8 of RA 11900 in relation to RA 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act of 2012).
