A joint operation by the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and the Land Transportation Office (LTO) led to the confiscation of 33 surplus vehicles, including 19 illegal right-hand drive (RHD) units, and the arrest of two Cameroonian nationals in Baliok, Talomo District.

The raid was carried out at around 2:00 PM on 12 July at M AND A TRADING, following weeks of covert surveillance and intelligence gathering, the NBI said.

NBI Director Jaime Santiago identified the suspects as Eric Bobonmeh Monkam and Ndopgima Polowah Goodenought. Both are now in custody and face multiple charges for violating Republic Act No. 8506, which prohibits the importation, sale, and operation of right-hand drive vehicles in the Philippines.

Of the 33 seized units, 19 were confirmed to be non-conforming RHD vehicles. A forensic audit also revealed that the establishment had no accreditation from the LTO to engage in the surplus vehicle trade or modification.

The joint crackdown is part of a broader campaign to rid Philippine roads of illegally imported and modified vehicles.

Violations of RA 8506 are punishable by imprisonment and fines of up to P50,000. Authorities said legal proceedings are ongoing.