MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — A large-scale smuggling operation was thwarted late Wednesday night after authorities intercepted a group of men unloading suspected contraband along the الساحline of Barangay Bunkhouse, leading to the seizure of millions worth of smuggled cigarettes and the launch of an intensified manhunt.
According to initial police reports, joint elements of the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) and the 1402nd Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14A (RMFB14A) responded to suspicious activity observed at around 11:50 p.m. on March 25, 2026. Upon arrival at the coastal area, the operatives caught several individuals in the act of unloading what appeared to be boxes of illegal goods.
Sensing the presence of law enforcers, the suspects immediately fled in different directions, abandoning their cargo in a bid to evade arrest. No immediate arrests were made during the operation.
Authorities recovered a total of 220 boxes of suspected smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of ₱12,870,000.00, marking one of the significant anti-smuggling interceptions in the province this year.
The confiscated items were promptly secured and subjected to proper inventory procedures in the presence of barangay officials to ensure transparency and accountability. The evidence is now under police custody for further documentation and legal processing.
Police officials have launched a hot pursuit operation to track down the fleeing suspects, vowing to dismantle the smuggling network believed to be behind the illegal activity.
“This operation sends a strong message that law enforcement remains relentless in its campaign against smuggling. There will be no safe haven for those who attempt to undermine our laws and economy,” a police official said.
Authorities also warned that operations against smuggling will be intensified, particularly in coastal and remote areas often exploited by illicit traders. The Philippine National Police reiterated its firm stance: there will be no leniency for violators of the law.
Investigations are ongoing to identify the individuals involved and determine the origin and intended distribution network of the seized contraband.