Camp Sgt Quintin M. Merecido, Buhangin, Davao City—In a significant operation on December 24, 2024, law enforcement authorities intercepted smuggled cigarettes valued at an estimated PhP 3,657,899.00 at the Task Force Davao Sirawan Joint Checkpoint in Brgy. Sirawan, Toril, Davao City.
The operation unfolded when a white Isuzu pickup truck was flagged down for a routine inspection at the checkpoint. During the inspection, police personnel in plain view spotted five reams of cigarettes and further inquiries revealed several cases of smuggled GREEN HILLS BRAND Cigarettes concealed at the back of the truck. Upon questioning, the driver failed to present the necessary documents for the cargo, prompting the on-duty personnel to detain him and seek assistance from the Toril Police Station (PS8) and Bureau of Customs.
The confiscated items included 2,737 reams of GREEN HILLS Brand and 1,918 reams of BROS RED smuggled cigarettes. Authorities also seized the vehicle, identified as a white-colored Isuzu forward truck dropside.
The arrested individual is currently in the custody of Toril Police Station (PS8) under the Davao City Police Office (DCPO). Meanwhile, the seized cigarettes were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition and further investigation.
Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 Regional Director, PBGEN Leon Victor Z. Rosete, lauded the coordinated efforts of the PNP personnel from Toril Police Station (PS8), DCPO, Task Force Davao, and the Bureau of Customs. “This successful operation highlights the vigilance, professionalism, and unwavering commitment of our law enforcement officers in safeguarding the region against illegal activities,” PBGEN Rosete stated.
The operation underscores the importance of continued collaboration among agencies to combat smuggling and other illegal activities in the region. Task Force Davao and the Bureau of Customs reiterated their commitment to maintaining strict monitoring and enforcement measures to uphold the integrity of the law and ensure public welfare.