Authorities intercepted a shipment of suspected smuggled cigarettes during an anti-criminality checkpoint operation on March 1, 2026, leading to the arrest of a female suspect and the confiscation of contraband valued at more than ₱126,000 in Kapatagan, Lanao del Sur.
Joint personnel from the Kapatagan Municipal Police Station (MPS) and the 1402nd Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB 14-A) were conducting routine checkpoint operations along Barangay Daguan when they flagged down a Rural Transit bus bound for Cotabato City. According to police reports, the suspect was among the passengers on board the bus.
Contraband Discovered in Bus Luggage Compartment
During inspection, checkpoint operatives discovered boxes of cigarettes concealed inside the vehicle’s luggage compartment. Authorities seized a total of 148 reams of White Fort cigarettes, believed to be smuggled, with an estimated market value of ₱126,640.64. Also recovered during the operation were 18 pairs of assorted slippers, which are now part of the inventory of seized items.
Police said the discovery underscores the continuing use of public transport routes for the movement of illegal goods across provinces in Mindanao.
Charges and Custody
The arrested suspect and the confiscated items are currently under the custody of the Kapatagan MPS for documentation, booking procedures, and the preparation of formal charges. Authorities said the suspect is facing possible violations of Republic Act 10643, or the Graphic Health Warning on Tobacco Products Act, and Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
After documentation is completed, the seized cigarettes will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition and further investigation into the possible source and distribution network behind the smuggled goods.
Police Commend Checkpoint Personnel
PCOL CAEZAR P. CABUHAT, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDSPPO), commended the checkpoint team for their vigilance and commitment to law enforcement operations.
Cabuhat emphasized that such operations play a crucial role in curbing the circulation of contraband and counterfeit goods, which not only undermine legitimate businesses but also deprive the government of revenue and pose potential health risks to consumers.
Authorities reiterated that anti-smuggling and anti-criminality checkpoints will continue across key transport routes in the province as part of intensified security and law enforcement efforts in the region.