DATU ODIN SINSUAT, Maguindanao del Norte — Authorities intercepted a dump truck loaded with suspected smuggled cigarettes during an early morning checkpoint operation in Barangay Tambak on February 11, 2026, resulting in the arrest of its driver and the seizure of contraband worth more than ₱700,000.
The operation was carried out at around 1:00 to 1:30 a.m. by the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station (DOSMPS), led by Police Major Katherine Paiduin, in coordination with various police units and the Bureau of Customs (BOC). The operation was launched following intelligence reports regarding the illegal transport of contraband from Maguindanao del Norte to Tacurong City.
The intercepted vehicle, a blue dump truck bearing plate number MAX 9173, was found carrying 17 boxes of KING Perfect cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱727,328.
Suspect Tried to Flee, Prompting Police Chase
Police identified the driver as Leomark Belotendos Serbales, 40, a resident of Barangay Cabuling, Tantangan, South Cotabato.
According to Police Major Paiduin, the suspect initially attempted to evade authorities by fleeing the checkpoint, prompting a brief pursuit by police personnel. He was eventually stopped and arrested without further incident.
Upon inspection, Serbales failed to present any legal transport documents, official receipts, or Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) barcodes required for the distribution of tobacco products, strengthening suspicions that the shipment was illegally sourced.
Vice Mayor Visits Site, Warns Against Illegal Trade
Datu Odin Sinsuat Vice Mayor Datu Bobsteel Sinsuat immediately proceeded to the area to personally assess the situation and express support for the ongoing anti-smuggling and anti-criminality campaign of the Philippine National Police and the military.
In a statement, the vice mayor warned individuals involved in illegal trade that authorities in the municipality remain vigilant.
“There is no letup in our monitoring efforts. The police and Philippine Marines are continuously working together to maintain peace and order. Any form of illegal activity will not be tolerated,” Sinsuat said.
Charges Being Prepared
The suspect is currently under the custody of the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police for documentation and investigation. Authorities are preparing to file appropriate charges related to violations of customs, tax, and anti-smuggling laws.
Meanwhile, the confiscated cigarettes and the dump truck will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition and further verification.
Strengthening Anti-Smuggling Efforts
Police officials emphasized that the successful interception highlights the importance of coordinated intelligence operations and checkpoint enforcement in curbing smuggling activities that deprive the government of tax revenues and threaten public welfare.
“This operation sends a strong message that our law enforcement agencies will continue to pursue and dismantle illegal trade networks operating in the province,” Major Paiduin said.
Authorities urged the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling and other illegal operations to help maintain safety and order in the community.