Kiamba, Sarangani Province – Authorities in Region 12 intercepted ₱235,740 worth of smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation on Saturday afternoon, September 6, 2025, in Barangay Katubao, Kiamba.
The joint operation was conducted by personnel of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company, Kiamba Municipal Police Station, both under the Sarangani Provincial Police Office, together with the 1204th Maneuver Company of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12 (RMFB 12).
At around 4:16 p.m., operatives flagged down a grayish blue Toyota Vios for routine inspection. Police discovered several reams of Fort cigarettes concealed beneath the backseat flooring and covered with black car matting. A more thorough inspection of the trunk yielded an even larger volume of contraband.
The driver, identified as alias “Ebrah,” 39, married, and a resident of Buluan, Maguindanao del Sur, failed to present documents proving the legal transport or ownership of the cigarettes. He was immediately placed under arrest.
Authorities confiscated 300 reams of Fort cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱235,740. The seized items were inventoried and marked on-site in the presence of Barangay Katubao officials. The suspect, along with the vehicle and contraband, was brought to the Kiamba Municipal Police Station for documentation and disposition.
Police Regional Office 12 Regional Director PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente lauded the successful operation, stressing its significance in the campaign against smuggling.
“This operation demonstrates our firm stance against smuggling and illicit trade that threaten our economy and the welfare of our people. PRO 12 will continue to strengthen its border control and law enforcement measures to protect our communities,” Ardiente said.
Authorities said the suspect will face appropriate charges while the seized cigarettes will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper handling.