Indanan, Sulu – Law enforcement officials successfully confiscated a significant cache of smuggled cigarettes valued at Php 2,500,000.00 in Brgy. Kajatian, Indanan, Sulu, on February 28, 2025. The operation led to the recovery of 50 boxes containing 25,000 packs of assorted cigarettes, further demonstrating authorities’ commitment to curbing illicit smuggling activities in the region.
This successful operation was the result of a coordinated effort among multiple law enforcement agencies, including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Sulu Provincial Force Unit, Sulu Provincial Intelligence Team-RIU 9, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-B, Sulu Police Provincial Office’s 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company, Provincial Intelligence Unit, and the Indanan Municipal Police Station. Their joint action underscores the ongoing initiative to maintain public order and enforce anti-smuggling laws.
The smuggled cigarettes were discovered abandoned in a vacant lot, suggesting they had been left behind by an unknown individual, possibly as part of an illegal distribution scheme. Authorities believe that the swift response of law enforcement thwarted the illicit trade, preventing the sale of the contraband items in local markets.
Following the seizure, the confiscated goods were transported to the Indanan Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and inventory before being turned over to the CIDG Sulu Provincial Force Unit. The Bureau of Customs will handle the final disposition of the items, ensuring that legal procedures are strictly followed.
Regional Director PBGEN Romeo J. Macapaz lauded the efforts of the joint operating units, emphasizing that smuggled cigarettes pose serious threats to both public health and the regional economy. He reiterated the importance of sustained vigilance in preventing smuggling and other unlawful activities that undermine legal trade and public welfare.
This latest operation highlights the effectiveness of inter-agency collaboration in combating illegal enterprises, reaffirming law enforcement’s dedication to protecting the community from the negative impacts of smuggling. Authorities continue to encourage public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities to strengthen efforts against illicit trade.
