Authorities seized P1.8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a raid along a road in Barangay Bus-bus, Jolo, following a tip-off from a concerned citizen. The operation led to the confiscation of 51 boxes of Cannon cigarettes, highlighting the ongoing efforts to curb illegal smuggling in the region.
The joint operation, involving personnel from the Jolo Municipal Police Station (MPS), the 140th Regional Mobile Force Company-B, the Provincial Intelligence Unit of Sulu PPO, CIDG-Sulu, and the Regional Intelligence Unit PIT, was launched after receiving intelligence about the presence of smuggled goods in the area.
Upon arriving at the scene, authorities caused a commotion, prompting individuals in the vicinity to flee, abandoning two Tamaraw FX vehicles loaded with the contraband on the roadside. Inside the vehicles, officers discovered 51 boxes of Cannon cigarettes, with an estimated street value of P1,887,000.
Efforts to identify the individuals involved in the smuggling operation were unsuccessful, as no one came forward to claim ownership of the vehicles or the goods. The confiscated cigarettes were taken into custody by the Jolo MPS for verification, proper documentation, and further legal procedures.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to identify those responsible for the illegal operation.
Brig. Gen. Prexy Tanggawohn, acting regional director of the Police Regional Office Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), commended the swift action of the raiding team. He reaffirmed the police’s commitment, in collaboration with other law enforcement agencies, to intensify efforts to combat smuggling and other illicit activities in Sulu and the wider BARMM region.
“This successful operation sends a strong message to those engaged in illegal smuggling activities that we will not tolerate such actions. We are determined to uphold the law and protect our region from these harmful practices,” Tanggawohn said.
As the investigation continues, authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities that may be linked to smuggling operations.
