PARANG, Maguindanao del Norte — What started as a routine anti-criminality checkpoint turned into a major anti-smuggling operation after the Philippine National Police (PNP) intercepted nearly P4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Pinantao, Parang, on Tuesday morning, January 20, 2026.
At around 11:30 a.m., joint operatives from the 1401st Regional Mobile Force Company (RMFC), RMFB14-A Maritime Detachment, and the Parang Municipal Police Station, in coordination with the Regional Intelligence Division of PRO-BARMM and the Bureau of Customs Sub-Port of Parang, flagged down a white Isuzu wing van bearing plate number KBC 8662. The vehicle was reportedly en route to Cotabato when authorities received intelligence that it was transporting illegal cargo.
Police identified the vehicle’s occupants as Ebrahim Ansao, 42, a resident of Sultan Kudarat, Maguindanao del Norte, and Rasid Kasan, 48, from Barangay Kapinpilan, Cotabato. During a thorough inspection, operatives discovered 4,582 reams of GAJAH BARU-brand cigarettes with an estimated market value of P3,920,725.68. The contraband was allegedly concealed within the floor panels and wall compartments of the van.
The two suspects failed to present any legal documents proving the legitimacy of the shipment, prompting authorities to seize the cigarettes and impound the vehicle. Both individuals are currently under police custody at the Parang Municipal Police Station for documentation and further investigation.
Police said appropriate criminal charges are being prepared against the suspects for violations of Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, as well as Republic Act No. 12022, which strengthens the government’s campaign against illicit tobacco trade.
Investigators added that efforts are ongoing to identify the financiers and larger network behind the attempted distribution of the smuggled cigarettes, which were reportedly sourced from abroad and intended for circulation in various parts of the Bangsamoro region.
In a statement, the PNP underscored that the successful operation reflects its intelligence-driven and focused law enforcement strategy, emphasizing strengthened checkpoint operations to curb smuggling and other forms of organized crime.
Authorities reiterated their warning to individuals involved in illegal trade, stressing that intensified operations across key transit routes in BARMM will continue in line with the PNP’s commitment to public safety and economic protection.