PARANG, Maguindanao del Norte — A coordinated anti-smuggling operation in the early hours of Monday, April 20, 2026, resulted in the arrest of 12 individuals—including a minor—and the seizure of over ₱5.4 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes, along with an unlicensed firearm, authorities reported.
The intelligence-driven checkpoint operation was conducted at around 1:20 a.m. in Duran village by joint elements of the 1401st Regional Mobile Force Company under the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-A, in coordination with the Parang Municipal Police Station, Tactical Support Company, Philippine National Police Maritime Group, Regional Intelligence Division of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region, and the Bureau of Customs.
Authorities intercepted three vehicles during the operation: a silver minivan, a red Isuzu Elf truck, and a black Toyota Fortuner. A thorough inspection of the vehicles led to the discovery of approximately 6,500 reams of CANNON brand cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱5,431,725. Investigators said the cargo lacked the necessary legal documentation, raising strong suspicion of smuggling.
In addition to the contraband, operatives also confiscated a caliber .45 pistol, identified as a Springfield Armory firearm, further compounding the charges against the suspects.
The 12 individuals apprehended were identified as Jonada Alibaser Boga, the driver of one of the vehicles; Norwaffy Maruhom Mangayao; Mohaimen Abdulnasser Camara; Ali Grande Abubacar; Alinor Ontongan Esmail; Mike Sike Mangontra; Alzayn Garangan Demao; Norhana Mangontra Abdulrahman; Hamza Macasalong Esmail; Alnahar Mangontra Raraco; Raisa Martinez Mangontra; and a 14-year-old minor identified only by an alias. The suspects are residents of various areas in Lanao del Sur and Tacurong City.
All suspects are now under police custody and are set to face charges for violations of anti-smuggling laws and Republic Act No. 10591, or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Regulation Act.
The arrested individuals, along with the seized vehicles, firearm, and contraband goods, were brought to the Parang Municipal Police Station for documentation and proper disposition. The confiscated cigarettes are scheduled to be turned over to the Bureau of Customs Sub-Port in Parang for further legal proceedings.
Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region Director PBGen. Jaysen C. De Guzman reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling operations and strengthening border control measures in the region. He emphasized that such efforts are crucial in protecting the country’s economy and maintaining law and order.
Authorities also credited the success of the operation to sustained intelligence efforts and the continued cooperation of local communities, whose vigilance remains vital in the fight against smuggling and other forms of criminality.
Further investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the operation and identify other individuals who may be involved in the illegal activity.