CIDG Busts P46 Million Smuggled ‘Ukay-Ukay’ in Bulacan

In a significant crackdown on smuggling, the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) confiscated PHP46 million worth of secondhand clothes, locally known as ‘ukay-ukay’, in Bulacan. The operation, named Oplan Megashopper, led to the arrest of five individuals, including two key suspects identified only as Shawn and Liang, during raids on multiple warehouses in Meycauayan City. CIDG chief Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III announced the seizure, which also included an Isuzu truck, various business documents, 23,614 bundles of imported used clothing, passports, and IDs. The apprehended suspects and the seized items were transferred to the CIDG’s Central Luzon field unit for further processing and legal proceedings. They are facing charges under Republic Act 4653, which bans the commercial importation of used clothing and rags. Torre emphasized the CIDG’s commitment to combating economic crimes, stating, ‘These operations demonstrate our dedication to fighting crimes that harm the nation’s economy. We will remain vigilant to protect the safety and well-being of all Filipinos.’