INDANAN, Sulu — The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 9 (CIDG RFU 9) has intensified its crackdown on illegal tobacco trade following the confiscation of nearly ₱3 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes during a late-night operation in Barangay Kajatian, Indanan, Sulu.
Authorities reported that at around 11:09 p.m. on February 5, 2026, CIDG operatives intercepted and seized 56 master cases of unregulated and abandoned cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱2,968,000.00. The operation effectively dismantled a suspected smuggling activity that poses serious threats to public health and government revenues.
According to CIDG RFU 9, the cigarettes were believed to have been illegally transported and left behind by unidentified individuals who fled upon sensing the presence of law enforcement. The confiscated items are now under the custody of authorities for proper documentation, verification, and disposition in accordance with existing laws.
The successful operation was conducted as part of the nationwide campaign against illicit trade ordered by Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. and CIDG Director Police Major General Robert Alexander A. Morico II. The campaign underscores the PNP’s firm commitment to dismantling criminal networks involved in smuggling and tax evasion.
Leading the mission was the CIDG Regional Special Operations Team (RSOT) of RFU 9, working in close coordination with the CIDG Sulu Provincial Field Unit, the Special Project Intelligence Team–RIU9 (SPIT-RIU9), and the Indanan Municipal Police Station. The coordinated effort highlighted the unity and operational precision of various law enforcement units in addressing transnational and local smuggling activities.
Police officials emphasized that the seizure goes beyond the recovery of illegal goods, describing it as a significant victory for the Filipino people. They stressed that unregulated tobacco products often contain harmful substances, evade quality control measures, and deprive the government of much-needed tax revenues.
“The confiscation helps protect public health, secure government income, and prevent criminal groups from profiting at the expense of communities,” CIDG RFU 9 said in a statement.
Authorities also noted that smuggling activities in border and coastal areas such as Sulu continue to pose challenges due to their accessibility and proximity to international routes. As such, law enforcement agencies are intensifying surveillance, intelligence gathering, and inter-agency coordination to curb illegal trade.
An investigation is currently underway to identify the individuals and syndicates behind the smuggling operation. Possible violations of the National Internal Revenue Code, the Anti-Smuggling Act, and other relevant laws are being evaluated for filing of appropriate charges.
Meanwhile, the CIDG appealed to the public to remain vigilant and actively participate in the fight against illicit trade by reporting suspicious activities and illegal tobacco products in their communities.
“Public cooperation is vital in ensuring that justice prevails, communities are protected, and the rule of law is upheld,” the agency added.
The CIDG reaffirmed its commitment to relentlessly pursue violators, strengthen law enforcement efforts, and safeguard the welfare of the Filipino people against all forms of criminal exploitation.