Kalamansig, Sultan Kudarat — January 13, 2025
A significant operation by the Kalamansig Municipal Police Station (MPS) led to the recovery of smuggled cigarettes valued at approximately PHP 3,678,000. The operation occurred at Sitio Babangkaw, Barangay Paril, following a reported traffic accident.
At around 11:00 AM, Kalamansig MPS personnel responded to the scene and discovered an abandoned ISUZU Reefer Van that had veered off the Kalamansig-Palimbang road. The vehicle, bearing the plate number CBJ-8013, chassis number FRD34K4-7000648, and motor number 6HK1-441400, was registered as a Meat Transport Vehicle. However, further inspection revealed it was carrying 220 cartoon boxes of smuggled cigarettes, including brands such as Aris, Canon, President, Gaja Baru, and Commissioner. The total cargo amounted to an estimated 10,510 reams of cigarettes.
The confiscated items were transported to the Kalamansig MPS for inventory. They will subsequently be handed over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Sub-port of General Santos in Barangay Labangal, General Santos City, for proper documentation and disposal.
Authorities are in the process of preparing criminal complaints against the individuals involved, citing violations of Republic Act 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Acting Provincial Director, PCOL Bernard L. Lao, lauded the Kalamansig Police for their swift and effective action. He emphasized the importance of this operation in curbing smuggling and other illegal activities within the province. “This accomplishment highlights the dedication of our personnel to upholding law and order and ensuring the safety and security of our communities,” Lao stated.
The successful seizure underscores the continued vigilance of local authorities in combating smuggling activities and preserving the integrity of lawful trade in the region.