PICONG, Lanao del Sur — Police intercepted over PHP1.6 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in a dawn checkpoint operation that led to the arrest of two suspects transporting the contraband along Barangay Tual early Tuesday, December 9, 2025.
According to PRO-BAR Spokesperson PLtCol Jopy Ventura, the suspects were identified as Waffy Abdul, 31, and a 17-year-old minor known as “Sod”, both residents of Brgy. Liangan, Picong.
Authorities said the two were on board a white Mitsubishi L300 (plate number DBS 3140) when they were flagged down during a joint checkpoint operation of the Picong Municipal Police Station, 2nd PMFC, and RMFB 14-A at around 1:45 a.m.
During a plain-view inspection, police discovered 2,150 reams of Cannon cigarettes neatly stacked at the back of the van—contraband valued at approximately PHP1,680,000.
Initial investigation revealed that the smuggled cigarettes were loaded in Brgy. Biosong and were allegedly bound for Malabang, Lanao del Sur. When police demanded legal documents for the cargo, the suspects failed to produce any, prompting their immediate arrest.
Both Abdul and the minor are now under the custody of the Picong MPS for proper documentation and filing of charges. The confiscated cigarettes will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for appropriate disposition.
Authorities reaffirmed that the intensified checkpoint operations are part of ongoing efforts to curb smuggling and other criminal activities in Lanao del Sur.