Lambayong, Sultan Kudarat – Authorities seized smuggled cigarettes valued at ₱82,350 and arrested one suspect during a checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Barangay Didtaras in the early hours of December 4, 2024.
At around 3:30 AM, personnel from the Lambayong Municipal Police Station (MPS) flagged down a blue Toyota Avanza with plate number NBW 5231 for inspection. Upon examination, the vehicle was found loaded with four boxes of Titan cigarettes. The driver failed to present the necessary documents, prompting authorities to confiscate the contraband.
The suspect, identified as a 45-year-old businessman from Purok Inanama, Barangay Poblacion, Lambayong, was taken into custody. Both the suspect and the seized goods are now under the care of the Lambayong MPS for documentation and further legal proceedings.
Acting Provincial Director, Police Colonel Bernard L. Lao, praised the operatives for their swift action. “This operation exemplifies the commitment of our law enforcement personnel in line with the directive of our Officer-In-Charge, PRO 12, to intensify the campaign against smuggling. The seizure of smuggled goods and the arrest of the offender highlight our continuous efforts to safeguard the economic interests of our community and ensure that illegal activities are curtailed effectively,” he said.
The operation underscores the commitment of authorities to crack down on smuggling and illegal trade in the province, in line with broader national efforts to protect local industries and prevent tax evasion.
Investigation into the case is ongoing.
