MAKILALA, COTABATO — Two alleged peddlers of smuggled cigarettes were arrested by authorities in Barangay Malabuan, Makilala, Cotabato, on the afternoon of November 1, 2025.
Police identified the suspects only by their aliases, Rey and Jo. They were intercepted aboard a white minivan during a joint anti-smuggling operation conducted by the Makilala Municipal Police Station, led by PLT Jay Magallena Sarda, under the supervision of PLTCOL Tristan Vergel Javier Sablada, Officer-in-Charge, and the Regional Intelligence Division 12.
Authorities acted swiftly after receiving information that two individuals were selling smuggled cigarettes in the area. Acting on the tip, police established a chokepoint and flagged down the suspects’ vehicle, which matched the description provided.
During the inspection, operatives saw two reams of Fortune White and Far Red cigarettes in plain view on the dashboard. Further search led to the discovery of several yellow and white sacks containing cigarettes without the required Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) documentary stamps.
The confiscated contraband included 37 reams of Fort White, 36 reams of Far Red, 6 reams of Casablanca Red, and 9 reams of Belin Red cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱89,250.00.
The suspects failed to present any legal documents for the items, prompting their immediate arrest. They were informed of their constitutional rights in a language they could understand and were taken to Midway Hospital for a medical examination before undergoing standard booking procedures.
The seized cigarettes and other evidence were turned over to the Makilala Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and disposition. The suspects remain under police custody as authorities coordinate with the Bureau of Customs for the filing of appropriate charges and the conduct of inquest proceedings.
Police reaffirmed their commitment to intensify operations against smuggling and other illegal trade activities in Cotabato, warning violators that such acts will be met with firm legal action.