Glan, Sarangani Province – December 29, 2024
In a swift operation prompted by a tip-off from a concerned citizen, the Sarangani Police Provincial Office, in collaboration with multiple law enforcement units, intercepted a shipment of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Poblacion, Glan, Sarangani Province. The joint operation involved personnel from the Glan Municipal Police Station (MPS), Regional Intelligence Division (RID) 12 Special Tasking Team Alpha (STTA), Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) 12, and the 1st Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company (SPFMC), 3rd Mobile Platoon.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Danny,” a 56-year-old resident of Datu Wata Street, Brgy. Poblacion, was apprehended while allegedly hauling the illicit goods at Datu Wata Street, Colony 9. Authorities believe the smuggled cigarettes originated from Indonesia.
Recovered during the operation were various brands of cigarettes, including:
- 80 reams of Baru (red)
- 5 reams of Fort (white)
- 20 reams of Duo (red)
- 4 reams of New Orleans (white)
- 4 reams of King Phillip (red)
- 2 reams of Bosqu (white)
The total estimated market value of the confiscated items is Php 50,000.00. Law enforcement officials conducted an on-site inventory of the recovered goods, witnessed by a Barangay Kagawad of Brgy. Poblacion, before transporting them to the Glan MPS for documentation. The contraband will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in General Santos City for proper disposition.
The suspect is currently in the custody of Glan MPS and will face charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). This law aims to curb smuggling activities and ensure compliance with customs regulations.
This operation highlights the dedication of Glan MPS and its partner agencies in addressing illegal smuggling and maintaining law enforcement standards in the region. Authorities urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to help safeguard the local economy and community.
