ILIGAN CITY, Lanao del Norte — Authorities intercepted approximately ₱1.2 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes during a joint anti-smuggling operation along the national highway in Barangay Dalipuga, Iligan City, early Friday morning, June 19, 2026.
The operation, conducted at around 5:30 a.m., was carried out by joint operatives from the City Intelligence Unit–City Special Operations Unit (CIU-CSOU), Regional Intelligence Division 10 Resident Agent Iligan City, Police Station 3, and Task Force Iligan.
According to police reports, law enforcement personnel intercepted a white Fuso van traveling along Purok 2, Sitio Mapalad, National Highway, Barangay Dalipuga after receiving intelligence information regarding the transport of suspected smuggled tobacco products.
During a lawful visual inspection of the vehicle, authorities discovered 1,500 reams of “Bosqu” brand cigarettes believed to have been smuggled into the country. The seized cigarettes have an estimated market value of ₱1,200,000.
In addition to the contraband, authorities also confiscated the van allegedly used to transport the illicit goods.
The occupants of the vehicle were identified only by their aliases “Niel,” 55, the driver, and “Rey,” 35, a passenger, both residents of San Francisco, Agusan del Sur. Investigators said the two individuals failed to present the required permits, invoices, or other documentation proving the legality of the cigarettes’ transport and ownership.
Initial investigation revealed that the shipment allegedly originated from Zamboanga City and was bound for Agusan del Sur when it was intercepted by authorities.
Law enforcement officials said the confiscated cigarettes and the vehicle will be turned over to the appropriate authorities of the Bureau of Customs for proper documentation, inventory, and safekeeping. The agency is also expected to determine the extent of customs and tax violations related to the shipment.
Meanwhile, the suspects were temporarily released pending adjudication and further proceedings by the Bureau of Customs, which has jurisdiction over smuggling-related cases involving imported goods.
Police Regional Office 10 Regional Director PBGEN Christopher N. Abrahano lauded the operating units for the successful operation, emphasizing the importance of sustained intelligence-driven efforts in combating smuggling activities across Northern Mindanao.
Abrahano noted that the seizure highlights the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protecting government revenues and preventing the proliferation of untaxed and illegally transported products in local markets.
Authorities continue to intensify anti-smuggling operations throughout the region as part of broader efforts to curb illicit trade, enforce customs regulations, and dismantle networks involved in the illegal transport and distribution of contraband goods.