Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte – Police authorities recovered 20 boxes of smuggled cigarettes abandoned along the seashore of Barangay Kusiong at around 4:55 AM on February 7, 2025, following a tip from a concerned citizen.
Personnel from the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station (MPS), led by PLT Amerham A. Isnain under the supervision of PMAJ Radzak S. Musa, Officer-in-Charge, responded swiftly to the report. They were joined by elements of the 1404th Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-A, the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Maguindanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (MDNPPO), and the Provincial Intelligence Unit of MDNPPO. Upon arrival, authorities discovered the contraband hidden under a black tarpaulin, likely abandoned by smugglers fearing apprehension.
The confiscated items, consisting of 20 boxes of Dunston brand cigarettes worth approximately P400,000, were inventoried in the presence of barangay officials, including Kagawad Abdulbassir G. Campong. The police ensured proper documentation of the seized goods before securing them for further processing.
PCOL Eleuterio M. Ricardo Jr., Officer-in-Charge, commended the swift and coordinated efforts of law enforcement in recovering the smuggled goods. “This successful recovery highlights our unwavering commitment to combating smuggling activities. We will continue to work closely with the community and intensify our efforts to stop the illegal trade of contraband goods,” Ricardo stated.
The seized cigarettes are now in police custody and will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper handling and disposal. Authorities continue to urge the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities as part of the ongoing campaign against smuggling and economic sabotage.
