Camp Gallego, Tubod, Lanao del Norte – In a significant operation to curb smuggling activities, personnel from the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO), intercepted a vehicle carrying smuggled cigarettes valued at Php 480,000.00 during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Butadon, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte.
The operation unfolded around 1:30 PM on January 3, 2025, when a Toyota Innova, with the plate number NAR 8766 and a metallic silver finish, was flagged down at a checkpoint. The vehicle was driven by alias “Johaiber,” a 35-year-old active member of the Philippine National Police (PNP), currently assigned to the SND MPS, LDN PPO, and a resident of Barangay Payong, SND, Lanao del Norte. His passenger was identified as alias “Junior,” a 32-year-old male from Purok 4, Barangay Poblacion, SND, Lanao del Norte.
Upon inspection, checkpoint personnel observed cartons of cigarettes partially concealed under a raincoat in the vehicle’s backseat. This discovery prompted the officers to detain the vehicle and its occupants for further investigation. Barangay officials from Barangay Butadon, Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte, were immediately notified and coordinated for the operation.
The smuggled cigarettes, owned by alias “Junior” and transported by alias “Johaiber,” were reportedly en route from Barangay Liangan, Picong, Lanao del Sur, to Kapatagan, Lanao del Norte. The confiscated items included:
- Six (6) master cases of New Far brand red cigarettes, each containing 50 reams
- Eight (8) disposable cellophanes of New Far brand red cigarettes, each containing 25 reams
- Two (2) master cases of New Far brand white cigarettes, each containing 50 reams
The total estimated market value of the seized contraband was pegged at Php 480,000.00. Physical inventory and proper markings of the confiscated items were conducted at the scene in the presence of the suspects and Barangay officials. The suspects, along with the seized vehicle and items, were subsequently brought to the Kapatagan Municipal Police Station for documentation and will later be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Iligan City for further disposition.
PCOL Roy A. Magsalay, Provincial Director of the LDN PPO, lauded the swift and efficient response of the operating personnel. “This successful operation underscores our unwavering commitment to uphold the law and protect the public from the harmful effects of the illicit tobacco trade. The LDN PPO remains vigilant in combating illegal activities and ensuring the safety and well-being of our community,” he said.
He also urged the public to report any suspicious activities to the authorities to foster a safer and more secure environment for all.