The Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit 6 (RACU 6) conducted an entrapment operation on April 10, 2025, at 4:16 PM in Maasin, Iloilo, that led to the arrest of a 29-year-old man, alias “Toto,” for illegal online sale of smuggled cigarettes.

The operation stemmed from the proactive cyber patrolling by RACU 6, during which they discovered a post by “Toto” on Facebook Marketplace, selling smuggled cigarettes in bulk for Php27,500.00 per box. Upon engaging the suspect, he admitted that the cigarettes were smuggled. A total of 55 reams of smuggled cigarettes were confiscated from the suspect during the buy-bust operation.

Upon coordination with the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR), RACU 6 confirmed that the items being sold were undocumented, had not undergone the proper tax processes, and were therefore considered contraband.

“Toto” is facing charges for violations of Section 144, 145, 146, and 254 of RA No. 8484 (National Internal Revenue Code) as amended by RA No. 10351 (Sin Tax Reform Law) and further amended by RA No. 11467, and Section 14 of RA No. 10643 (The Graphic Health Warnings Law), all in relation to Section 6 of RA No. 10175 (Cybercrime Prevention Act).

The operation aligns with the directive of Police General Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, Chief of the PNP, to strengthen both proactive and reactive actions against cybercrime and ensure public safety in the cyber environment.

Police Brigadier General Bernard R. Yang, Acting Director of the PNP Anti-Cybercrime Group (ACG), lauded RACU 6 for the successful operation. He also stated, “Engaging in the sale of smuggled goods is a crime that undermines lawful trade and endangers public health. We urge everyone to comply with government regulations and purchase only products that are legally recognized by customs.”