Massive Raid Hits Imported Sugar Warehouses in Bulacan
Police seized more than P307 million worth of imported sugar following coordinated raids on three warehouses in Bulacan on Friday, June 6. Authorities said the operation targeted illegal storage, a practice that disrupts market prices and violates the law.
Police Col. Ranie P. Hachuela, officer-in-charge of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), emphasized that the seizures are part of the government’s relentless campaign against smuggling and other unlawful activities involving agricultural products. The 95,568 sacks of sugar found in Meycauayan City were illegally stored, which Hachuela described as economic sabotage. “Illegal storing of agricultural products, including sugar regardless of quantity, is considered economic sabotage, thus, against the law,” he said.
Legal Action and Enforcement Collaboration
The CIDG’s Bulacan Provincial Field Unit, along with other police teams, conducted the operations after securing a search warrant with the help of the Department of Agriculture Inspectorate Enforcement and the Sugar Regulatory Administration. The sacks of imported sugar were discovered inside an industrial park in Barangay Perez.
The total value of the seized sugar reached P307,675,950.00. Authorities are preparing charges under Republic Act 10845, the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016, against those responsible. Hachuela stressed that these operations highlight the government’s firm stance against smuggling and economic sabotage, aiming to prevent hoarding and protect market stability.
Impact on Market and Agricultural Sector
Experts and local officials note that illegal storage of agricultural goods distorts supply and inflates prices, harming consumers and honest traders alike. The crackdown sends a strong message that such practices will not be tolerated. It also supports the integrity of the agricultural sector by ensuring a fair and lawful marketplace.
This significant seizure underlines ongoing efforts to combat smuggling, which threatens the country’s agricultural economy. Continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement and regulatory agencies remain vital to safeguard food security and consumer welfare.
For more news and updates on agricultural smuggling, visit Filipinokami.com.