BoC partners with DoJ and NBI to strengthen smuggling investigation

THE Bureau of Customs (BoC), together with other agencies, committed to strengthening joint investigations and building robust cases against “big-time” smuggling bosses.

In a statement on May 31, the agency said that it will be working with the Department of Justice (DoJ) and the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) to apprehend the masterminds behind smuggling operations.

“We cannot do this alone,” BoC Commissioner Ariel F. Nepomuceno said in Filipino.

“Government agencies need to work together, especially in investigating and building cases, to ensure that not only the small-time players but also the big-time individuals and groups behind it are held accountable.”

He said that the closer coordination with DoJ and NBI will not only help in strengthening cases but also enable faster action against the violators.

“This step will ensure that enforcement efforts yield tangible results in protecting government revenue, supporting lawful businesses, and safeguarding the interests of the Filipino people,” the BoC said. — Justine Irish D. Tabile