Manila, Jan. 1 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) will conduct a thorough investigation into the PHP1.1 billion worth of smuggled cigarettes discovered during an anti-carnapping operation in Batangas City on New Year's Eve.

"We need to identify and run after those responsible," acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez said in a statement on Thursday, noting the large amount involved.

"Tiyak ako na involved din ang mga ito sa ibang smuggling activities. Hindi natin ito palalampasin (I'm sure those responsible are also involved in other smuggling activities. We will not leave this untouched)," he added.

The discovery was made after operatives of the PNP-Highway Patrol Group (HPG) located a red Hyundai Accent that was reporte...