Authorities seized alleged smuggled cigarettes valued at ₱427,500 after intercepting an abandoned vehicle during a coordinated checkpoint operation in Barangay Baraas, Picong, Lanao del Sur on March 3, 2026.
The operation was carried out through the joint efforts of the Picong Municipal Police Station (MPS) and troops from Bravo Company of the 51st Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army.
According to the report, the operation began when personnel of the 51st Infantry Battalion conducting checkpoint monitoring noticed a suspicious silver Toyota Hi-Ace van passing through the area. The military unit immediately relayed the information to the Picong MPS, prompting police officers to respond and proceed to the location.
When authorities attempted to intercept the vehicle, the unidentified driver abandoned the van and fled the scene, evading arrest.
A subsequent inspection of the vehicle led to the discovery of ten boxes of cigarettes openly stored inside the van. Authorities later confirmed that the shipment contained around 500 reams of “Modern” brand cigarettes believed to be smuggled into the province.
The confiscated items are estimated to have a market value of ₱427,500.
Authorities said the seizure falls under violations of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, which penalizes the unlawful importation and transport of goods without proper customs documentation. The case also involves a possible violation of Republic Act No. 10643, also known as the Graphic Health Warnings Law, which requires cigarette packages to carry government-mandated health warnings.
Both the seized cigarettes and the abandoned vehicle are currently under the custody of the Picong Municipal Police Station. They will be formally turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper documentation and legal disposition.
Police Colonel Caezar P. Cabuhat, Provincial Director of the Lanao del Sur Provincial Police Office, commended the swift coordination between the police and the Philippine Army that led to the successful interception.
Cabuhat emphasized that joint security operations and information-sharing among law enforcement agencies remain vital in curbing smuggling activities and other illegal trade in the province.
Authorities have launched further investigations to identify and locate the driver who fled the scene, as well as determine the origin and intended destination of the confiscated cigarette shipment.
Law enforcement officials said operations against smuggling will continue across Lanao del Sur as part of broader efforts to protect legitimate businesses, enforce customs laws, and prevent the circulation of illegal products in local markets.