ILIGAN CITY — Authorities intercepted an abandoned vehicle carrying an estimated ₱2.4 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Upper Luinab, dealing another blow to the illegal tobacco trade in Iligan City.
According to a police report, operatives discovered around 60 boxes of “Cannon” cigarettes inside a Tamaraw Hilux with plate number KBK 2043. The cigarettes were reportedly found without proper documentation, leading authorities to believe that the products were illegally transported into the city.
The operation was led by the Iligan City Police Office Station 1 under the supervision of Rodulfo Aranador Jr., in coordination with the Bureau of Customs and the Philippine National Police.
Investigators said the vehicle appeared to have been abandoned before law enforcement officers arrived at the scene, suggesting that those responsible may have fled to avoid arrest. As a result, no suspects were apprehended during the initial operation.
Authorities have since launched a hot pursuit operation and a deeper investigation to identify and track down the individuals behind the smuggling attempt. Police are also examining the vehicle and its registration details to determine possible links to organized smuggling networks operating in the region.
Officials reiterated their warning against the continued entry and distribution of smuggled products in the city, emphasizing that intensified checkpoint operations and inter-agency coordination will remain in place to curb illegal trade.
The confiscated cigarettes are now under the custody of authorities and will undergo proper documentation and legal processing as part of the ongoing investigation. Law enforcement agencies also urged the public to report suspicious transport of goods that may be linked to smuggling activities.