GENERAL SANTOS CITY — Two men were arrested and an estimated ₱500,000 worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes were confiscated in a joint law enforcement operation conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional Field Unit 12, territorial police units, and the Bureau of Customs–Region 12 on the evening of December 17, 2025.
The operation, carried out at around 7:45 p.m. in Agan Centro, Barangay Lagao, also resulted in the seizure of a white minivan believed to have been used in transporting the illicit tobacco products. Authorities said the suspects were caught in flagrante delicto while possessing and allegedly trading the smuggled cigarettes.
CIDG identified the suspects only by their aliases: “Mohaymen,” 30, and “Camil,” 55, both male. They are facing charges for violations of Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, in relation to Republic Act No. 12022, the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act, which classifies large-scale agricultural smuggling as economic sabotage.
In a report received by PMGEN Robert AA Morico II, Acting Director of the CIDG, the operation underscored the government’s intensified drive against customs fraud and smuggling, crimes that drain public revenue and undermine legitimate trade.
Morico emphasized that it is the policy of the State to protect and enhance government revenue, ensure fair and transparent customs and tariff management, facilitate legitimate international trade, and prevent and curb all forms of customs fraud and illegal activities through a modernized enforcement framework.
The operation forms part of the CIDG’s nationwide crackdown in line with the focused program thrust of PNP Acting Chief Police Lieutenant General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., aimed at dismantling organized criminal activities and strengthening economic security.
CIDG leadership also commended PCOL Annie M. Langcay, Regional Chief of CIDG RFU-12, along with partner agencies, for the successful operation, noting that the seizure and arrests delivered a significant blow to smuggling networks operating in the region.
Authorities assured the public that the CIDG remains steadfast and relentless in enforcing the law and combating all forms of criminality. The public is urged to report suspicious or illegal activities in their communities, as authorities vowed swift and decisive action against violators.