BANGA, South Cotabato — The Philippine National Police–Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) seized a significant haul of smuggled cigarettes and arrested a suspect during a joint checkpoint operation along the National Highway in Sitio Ong-ante, Barangay Liwanay, Banga, South Cotabato, on January 21, 2026.
The operation, led by PBGen Hansel M. Marantan, Director of the PNP-HPG, was spearheaded by PHPT South Cotabato personnel under the supervision of the Regional Chief, RHPU-12, in coordination with the Banga Municipal Police Station. The checkpoint was conducted pursuant to Republic Act No. 10883 (New Anti-Carnapping Act of 2016), Republic Act No. 4136, and other relevant laws.
At approximately 5:11 PM, authorities flagged down a black-and-blue Kawasaki Bajaj motorcycle with a sidecar for traffic violations, including disregarding a traffic officer and operating without a valid driver’s license. Upon inspection, the driver, a legal-aged male, failed to present documents proving lawful ownership of the vehicle, in violation of Section 5 of RA 10883.
Further inspection of the vehicle revealed several boxes and sacks containing suspected smuggled cigarettes concealed in the sidecar. The driver was unable to provide documentation authorizing possession or transport of the goods. An inventory and inspection were conducted in the presence of Banga MPS personnel and an elected barangay official.
The seized items, comprising assorted cigarette brands, were valued at approximately Php171,136. The suspect was arrested on the spot, read his constitutional rights, and was transported along with the confiscated items to Banga Municipal Police Station for proper documentation. The items were later turned over to the Bureau of Customs for verification, further investigation, and disposition. Charges for violation of the Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act) are being prepared for filing before the Office of the Provincial Prosecutor in Koronadal City.
PBGen Marantan emphasized the significance of inter-agency collaboration and sustained law enforcement efforts, stating, “This operation highlights the effectiveness of joint checkpoints in addressing not only carnapping but also other transnational and economic crimes such as smuggling. The Highway Patrol Group will continue to strengthen coordination with partner agencies to protect public interest and uphold the rule of law.”
The PNP-HPG reminded motorists and transporters to comply with traffic regulations and ensure that all transported goods are properly documented, warning that violations will be met with legal action.