Alleged smuggler 'David Tan' arrested after meeting De Lima
MANILA, Philippines - The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) arrested Davidson Bangayan, allegedly the rice smuggling king carrying the name "David Tan," after surfacing at the bureau to deny the smuggling allegations.
Justice Secretary Leila de Lima said in a radio report that Bangayan's arrest is in connection with a standing warrant of arrest for violations of Republic Act 7832 or the law against theft of electric power transmission issued by the Caloocan Regional Trial Court.
While Bangayan may post bail, he may face imprisonment of up to six years once proven guilty.
Before his arrest, Bangayan met with De Lima to deny that he is David Tan, the alleged smuggling king notorious for bribing Customs officials as much as P6 billion in exchange for protection for illegal control over rice imports.
De Lima referred Bangayan to the NBI office to formally deny his involvement in the multi-billion peso modus operandi.
Earlier: Alleged smuggling king meets with De Lima
Bangayayan told De Lima he is willing to cooperate with state investigators on the crack down on smuggling activities.
Denying the smuggling tag, Bangayan said his trade involves scrap metals.
De Lima on Monday issued a statement identifying Bangayan as David Tan, belying claims by Davao City Mayor Rodrigo Duterte that the identity of the alleged rice smuggling king is fictitious.
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