Baloi, Lanao del Norte – November 23, 2024
Police officers from the Baloi Municipal Police Station (MPS) successfully intercepted contraband cigarettes worth an estimated PHP67,000 during a routine patrol at Baloi Public Market in Barangay West Poblacion.
At around 5:00 PM, a concerned citizen approached the patrolling officers, reporting contraband items allegedly prepared for transport via ferry along the Agus River to Barangay Angayen. Responding swiftly, the team proceeded to the area, where they observed suspicious items in plain view.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered two large cartons and a transparent plastic bag containing assorted cigarettes that lacked the required Graphic Health Warnings mandated by law. The owner of the items fled the scene upon noticing the police presence.
In coordination with the Municipal Health Officer and a Barangay Official, the recovered items were inventoried. The confiscated cigarettes included:
- 50 rims of Red Full Flavor Cigarettes
- 40 rims of Red Champion Cigarettes
- 40 rims of YS Filter Cigarettes
- 4 rims of Journey Cigarettes
The seized contraband was transported to the Baloi MPS for documentation and further investigation.
PCOL Roy A. Magsalay, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO), praised the Baloi MPS personnel for their swift response. “The LDN PPO continues to encourage the public to report suspicious activities to help prevent the distribution of illicit goods in our communities. Together, let us promote adherence to the law and ensure public safety,” he said.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to curbing illegal trade and urged citizens to remain vigilant in reporting unlawful activities to help maintain the integrity and safety of their communities.
