The National Bureau of Investigation in Central Visayas (NBI-7) is conducting an investigation into the unauthorized importation of used clothing, locally known as “ukay-ukay,” following the confiscation of 228 bales of such items from an establishment in Barangay Kalubihan, Cebu City. The operation took place on February 20, 2025, at a business located on Borromeo Street.
NBI-7 Director, Attorney Renan Oliva, stated that the primary objective of the investigation is to identify the channels and methods utilized to smuggle these used clothing items from South Korea into the region. This effort aims to prevent the entry of other potentially hazardous contraband, including illegal drugs, into Central Visayas.
The inquiry commenced on February 11, 2025, when NBI-7 received reports alleging illicit activities at a retail establishment selling ready-to-wear clothing in Cebu City. Subsequent surveillance and a test purchase conducted two days later corroborated these allegations. Armed with a search warrant, operatives raided the premises on February 20, seizing 228 bales of used clothing valued at approximately PHP 752,400.
During the operation, the only individuals present—a cashier and a saleslady—were unable to provide importation permits for the seized goods. They identified their employer as Bea Zheng Ty, a Filipino-Chinese resident of Manila, through affidavits.
On February 25, 2025, NBI-7 filed charges against Ty for violating Republic Act No. 4653, which prohibits the commercial importation of used clothing and rags to safeguard public health and uphold national dignity. The offense carries a penalty of two to five years imprisonment and a fine ranging from PHP 200 to PHP 20,000. Authorities are currently awaiting the issuance of an arrest warrant for Ty and are considering additional charges against possible accomplices.
The investigation has revealed that the used clothing was transported via container vans shipped by sea. Director Oliva expressed concerns that similar methods could be employed to smuggle other contraband into the region. He cited a previous incident in November 2024, where 60 kilograms of depleted uranium were seized in Mandaue City, underscoring the necessity of identifying and disrupting these smuggling routes to protect public safety.
In a related development, NBI agents in Metro Manila recently apprehended two Chinese nationals and three Filipinos found in possession of IMSI catchers—advanced surveillance devices intended exclusively for law enforcement use. These devices were discovered in vehicles frequenting areas such as the headquarters of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, the Philippine National Police, Malacañang, and other government facilities.
Director Oliva emphasized the importance of public vigilance and encouraged citizens to report any information regarding suspicious items not commonly available locally. Such community involvement is crucial in assisting authorities to investigate and prevent the illegal importation of contraband into Central Visayas.
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