Police operatives in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat seized more than ₱4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in a dawn operation on Saturday, September 20, 2025.
According to the Palimbang Municipal Police Station, the operation was launched around 5:00 a.m. after a confidential agent reported the presence of smuggled cigarettes inside a suspected warehouse in Sitio Bakong, Barangay Kolong-Kolong.
In coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) in General Santos City, the police team conducted the raid and arrested one suspect, whose full identity is being withheld for privacy. Authorities said the suspect was caught in possession of 5,135 reams of assorted smuggled cigarettes.
The confiscated items included 2,400 reams of F2, 600 reams of Cannon, 281 reams of Commando, 700 reams of Brighton, 400 reams of Millions, 650 reams of Tabaco, 69 reams of Oakland, and 35 reams of Hero cigarettes. Police estimated the total market value at ₱4,005,300.
Marking and inventory of the seized cigarettes were conducted on-site in the presence of barangay officials and the arrested suspect. The suspect was also informed of his constitutional rights before being taken to the Palimbang Police Station along with the confiscated items for proper disposition.
Authorities said appropriate charges are now being prepared against the suspect.