PARANG, Maguindanao del Norte — A 19-year-old man was arrested during a joint checkpoint operation in Barangay Poblacion 1, Parang, Maguindanao del Norte, after authorities discovered a large haul of illegal cigarettes in his possession on Saturday morning, December 13, 2025.
The Parang Municipal Police Station (MPS) identified the suspect by the alias “Jam,” a single driver and a resident of Barangay Sarmiento, Parang. He was apprehended at around 10:30 a.m. while passing through a checkpoint manned by personnel from the 2nd Military Police, Calawag Detachment, 1401st A RMC, and the Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 14-A.
According to police reports, the intensified checkpoint operation was conducted following intelligence information regarding the transport of contraband cigarettes using a motorcycle from Barira, Maguindanao del Norte. The suspect was flagged down for inspection, during which authorities noticed his suspicious behavior.
Upon further examination, operatives recovered a total of 100 reams of illegal cigarettes—50 reams of the brand BERLIN and another 50 reams of ENGLISHMAN—with an estimated total value of ₱78,500 based on standard market prices. The suspect failed to present any legal documents authorizing the transport of the said products.
The confiscated cigarettes, along with the motorcycle allegedly used in the illegal activity, are now under the custody of the Parang MPS for proper documentation and further investigation. The suspect remains detained and is set to face appropriate charges for violation of laws against the sale and transport of illicit cigarettes.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to sustaining strict checkpoint operations to curb smuggling activities and prevent the proliferation of illegal goods in the province, urging the public to remain vigilant and cooperate with law enforcement efforts.