CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY—The Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) successfully intercepted a shipment of smuggled cigarettes worth PhP1.6 million during a PNP Overlapping COMELEC Checkpoint in Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City on February 14, 2025.
Authorities seized 40 boxes of Modern-brand cigarettes containing 20,000 packs from a Toyota Van Hi-ace. The vehicle was driven by alias “Cha-cha,” 31, with a passenger identified as alias Rodnie, 38, both residents of Minsalirak, Quezon, Bukidnon. During the inspection, alias Rodnie managed to escape and remains at large.
Initial investigations revealed that the smuggled cigarettes were picked up in Macasandig upon instructions from alias Titi and were meant for delivery to alias Yordan in Barangay Marangiran, Quezon, Bukidnon. The driver admitted that this was their third time transporting similar contraband.
Checkpoint personnel flagged down the vehicle for routine inspection and requested proper documentation, which the suspects failed to provide. As a result, the confiscated items and the vehicle were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for appropriate disposition.
PBGEN Jaysen C. De Guzman, Regional Director of PRO10, commended the vigilance of the checkpoint personnel and reaffirmed the PNP’s intensified efforts against smuggling activities in Northern Mindanao.
“This successful interception highlights the effectiveness of our PNP Overlapping COMELEC Checkpoint, which serves as a crucial tool in curbing illegal activities. We remain steadfast in safeguarding our borders, enforcing the law, and holding violators accountable,” he said.
PRO10 continues to urge the public to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling and illegal trade to help strengthen efforts against illicit operations in the region.