Glan, Sarangani Province – In a decisive operation conducted on November 25, 2024, the Philippine National Police (PNP) apprehended three suspects and confiscated smuggled cigarettes valued at over Php45,000 during a checkpoint operation at Crossing Calabanit, Barangay Calabanit in Glan, Sarangani Province.
According to Police Colonel Deanry R. Francisco, Provincial Director of the Sarangani Police Provincial Office, the suspects were identified as:
- Alias “Ope”, 43, a driver and resident of Barangay Sapu Masla, Malapatan, Sarangani Province;
- Alias “Alon”, 40, the driver of the intercepted vehicle, also a resident of Barangay Tuyan, Malapatan, Sarangani Province; and
- Alias “Orez”, 22, a college student and resident of Sarangani Island, Davao Occidental.
The authorities confiscated 130 reams of undocumented Cannon Menthol cigarettes, valued at Php45,500, believed to be imported from Indonesia.
The suspects and the seized contraband are now under the custody of the Glan Municipal Police Station. The confiscated goods are set to be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in General Santos City for proper disposition and legal proceedings.
Colonel Francisco assured the public that the Sarangani PNP will intensify security measures to prevent the entry of any form of contraband into the area.
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat smuggling and uphold economic security in the region.
