The Land Transportation Office (LTO) said it is conducting a deeper investigation into a Chinese national suspected of smuggling luxury vehicles and allegedly selling some to the Discayas.

The individual was identified as Cheng Cao, who reportedly owns ACH High End Motor Center in Makati, which was raided by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in February.

According to LTO Chief Assistant Secretary Markus Lacanilao, authorities are checking whether Cao has a possible connection with car dealer Frebel Enterprise, which was allegedly among the suppliers of controversial flood control contractor couple Curlee and Sarah Discaya.

The LTO earlier impounded several luxury vehicles, including a Ferrari 458, Lamborghini Urus, and Lamborghini Huracán.

“All of them had one importer, Frebel, which was the same importer of the Discayas, that were registered with the National Capital Region,” Lacanilao said.

During one of the Senate Blue Ribbon Committee hearings, Sarah reportedly identified Frebel Enterprises as one of their car dealers. LTO is looking into Cao as it is believed that Frebel is one of his suppliers.

The agency is coordinating with the Bureau of Customs for the initial investigation to determine the link. On 27 November, the LTO and Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) flagged Cao in Makati City after one of his former Filipino employees filed a complaint through the Office of Sen. Erwin Tulfo.

During the arrest, Cao was reportedly found with an unlicensed firearm. In addition, his blue Mercedes-Benz did not match the description indicated in its registration papers. The suspect also allegedly attempted to conceal his real identity.

Cao is currently detained at Camp Crame under the custody of the PNP-HPG, while his Mercedes-Benz has been impounded by the LTO. The agency said it has already coordinated with the Bureau of Immigration to verify the suspect’s identity.