BANISILAN, Cotabato — Authorities intercepted approximately ₱1.8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested three individuals during a joint law enforcement operation at a regional border checkpoint in Banisilan, Cotabato on Thursday afternoon, June 4.
The successful operation was led by the Banisilan Municipal Police Station and conducted at around 1:35 p.m. at the Regional Border Checkpoint in Barangay Gastav, where law enforcers intercepted three Toyota Revo vehicles found transporting a large volume of illicit tobacco products.
According to police reports, authorities confiscated an estimated 2,142 reams of assorted smuggled cigarettes concealed inside the vehicles. The seized contraband carries an estimated market value of approximately ₱1.8 million.
The operation stemmed from routine checkpoint enforcement activities aimed at preventing the movement of illegal goods and strengthening border security within the province. Upon inspection of the vehicles, law enforcers discovered the smuggled cigarettes, prompting the immediate arrest of the drivers and occupants involved in the transport operation.
Following the seizure, authorities promptly coordinated with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) to facilitate the proper inspection, verification, and inventory of the confiscated items in accordance with existing customs laws and anti-smuggling regulations.
Investigators are currently working to determine the origin of the smuggled products, identify their rightful owners, and trace their intended destination. Authorities are also expanding the investigation to uncover possible links to larger smuggling networks and identify other individuals who may have participated in the illegal transport and distribution of the contraband.
Acting Provincial Director PCOL Ramel B. Hojilla lauded the operating units for the successful interdiction and emphasized the importance of sustained law enforcement efforts against economic sabotage and illicit trade activities.
“The confiscation demonstrates the vigilance and dedication of our personnel in safeguarding our borders and preventing the entry and movement of illegal goods,” Hojilla said as he commended the team behind the operation.
He further reaffirmed the commitment of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office to intensify anti-smuggling campaigns and strengthen coordination with partner agencies to curb illegal activities that deprive the government of revenues and undermine legitimate businesses.
The seized cigarettes remain under government custody pending further verification and legal proceedings, while criminal charges and possible customs violations are being prepared against the arrested individuals.
Authorities continue to urge the public to report suspicious activities related to smuggling and other illegal trade operations as part of ongoing efforts to protect local communities and uphold the rule of law in Cotabato Province.