GLAN, Sarangani Province — Authorities seized an estimated ₱157,160 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes after a white sedan evaded a police checkpoint and was later intercepted in a swift joint operation on the morning of January 31, 2026.
At around 7:30 a.m., personnel of the 1st Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) flagged down a white MG5 sedan at a checkpoint in Barangay Batulaki, Glan. The vehicle, however, sped away, prompting an immediate alert and coordination among law enforcement units in the area.
A joint dragnet operation was quickly launched involving the Glan Municipal Police Station (MPS), Sarangani 1st Special PMFC, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12 (RMFB 12), 1201st Company of the 3rd Maneuver Platoon, Sarangani Provincial Police Office – Provincial Intelligence Unit (SPPO-PIU), Regional Intelligence Unit (RIU), and Sarangani Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA).
The fleeing vehicle was successfully intercepted at Purok Masagana, Barangay Batulaki. Upon inspection, authorities discovered 200 reams of cigarettes branded “Cannon Menthol,” believed to be illegally manufactured and smuggled from Indonesia.
Police said the seized cigarettes are suspected to be contraband, lacking proper documentation and in violation of customs and taxation laws. The items were inventoried and documented in the presence of an elected barangay official and the apprehended individuals, in accordance with standard operating procedures.
The confiscated cigarettes were subsequently turned over to the Bureau of Customs–General Santos City for proper disposition, while appropriate charges are now being prepared for inquest proceedings against those involved.
Law enforcement officials said the operation underscores the continued vigilance and coordinated efforts of security forces in Sarangani Province to curb smuggling activities and protect the country’s borders from illicit trade.