Davao City, Philippines – October 30, 2024
In a significant anti-smuggling operation, personnel from the Regional Special Operations Group 11 (RSOG 11) of the Philippine National Police (PNP) seized 267 master cases of suspected smuggled Cannon brand cigarettes, valued at approximately PHP 4,005,000, in Purok Mahogany, Barangay Tres de Mayo, Digos City. The successful confiscation follows a report from a Reliable Confidential Informant (RCI) who indicated the presence of large quantities of illicit cigarettes in the area.
Responding promptly to the tip-off, RSOG 11 personnel arrived at the scene to find the master cases piled along the roadside. Officers coordinated with the Digos City Police Station to document the discovery, enlisting local barangay officials to witness the operation and ensure transparency.
Additionally, on October 29, RSOG 11 officers conducting anti-criminality patrols observed two men unloading cases of cigarettes from a van. When approached, the suspects fled the scene in a minivan, prompting a hot pursuit along the National Highway in Barangay Aplaya, Digos City. Police intercepted the vehicle, apprehending the suspects and confiscating 41 additional master cases of Cannon brand cigarettes, valued at an estimated PHP 600,000, as well as a six-wheeled van.
The seized items are currently in custody at the Digos City Police Station and will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for further action.
Police Regional Office 11 Acting Regional Director, PBGEN Leon Victor Z. Rosete, commended the officers for their dedication to protecting government revenue and enforcing customs regulations. The operation aligns with the broader initiative led by PNP Chief PGEN Rommel Francisco D. Marbil to intensify patrols nationwide and reduce criminal activities across the country.
This latest operation underscores the commitment of the PNP to maintaining security and order while safeguarding the country’s economic interests by combating illegal smuggling activities.
