The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) detained four Chinese nationals, uncovering PHP1.7 million (US$29,300) of misdeclared onions, initially declared as chicken karaage strips. CIDG Director Maj. Gen. Nicolas Torre III reported the arrest of suspects, identified by aliases Shengren, Jialong, Wei, and Dewen, in Barangay Laug, Mexico, Pampanga, on April 26.
The operation originated from intelligence on potential agricultural smuggling via a trailer truck in Mexico town. Inspection revealed white onions instead of the Japanese chicken strips declared in the import documents. Torre stated, "Upon inspection, it was found out that the products are white onions; the suspects allegedly misdeclared the onions as chicken karaage strips to evade the payment of correct taxes and duties due to the government." These onions were sourced from China.
Torre emphasized, "Our aggressive operations prevent smuggling of agricultural and fishery products, which negatively affects supply, production, and price stability of agricultural products and threatens food security." The suspects face charges under Section 7 paragraphs (c) and (e) of Republic Act 12022 (Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act) and RA 10845 (Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016) for fraudulent importation and tax evasion.
Torre concluded, "This operation is part of the national government's efforts to protect farmers and fisherfolk from unscrupulous traders and importers and ensure reasonable and affordable prices of agricultural and fishery products for consumers."
Source: Philippine News Agency
