OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental — Authorities intercepted approximately ₱800,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation in Ozamiz City late Thursday night, as law enforcement intensified efforts to curb the illegal transport of contraband in the province.
Personnel of the Ozamiz City Police Station, in coordination with the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of the Misamis Occidental Police Provincial Office (MOPPO), conducted the successful operation at around 11:10 p.m. on June 25 at the Border Control Point in Barangay Labinay.
Police flagged down a white multicab mini van for a routine inspection. During the checkpoint procedure, the driver failed to present the required documents for both the vehicle and its cargo, prompting officers to conduct a more thorough examination.
The inspection led to the discovery of 20 boxes of Berlin cigarettes believed to have been illegally smuggled into the country. Authorities estimated the market value of the confiscated cigarettes at ₱800,000.
The suspect was immediately taken into custody and brought to the Ozamiz City Police Station together with the seized contraband and the vehicle for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
Police have yet to disclose the identity of the suspect pending the completion of the investigation.
The Misamis Occidental Police Provincial Office said the seizure highlights the effectiveness of its intensified checkpoint and border control operations aimed at preventing the entry and distribution of smuggled goods within the province.
Authorities reiterated that cigarette smuggling deprives the government of millions of pesos in tax revenues while creating unfair competition for legitimate businesses. They emphasized that sustained enforcement operations will continue against individuals and groups engaged in the illegal trade of untaxed products.
The police also called on the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious vehicles, illegal transport activities, or other forms of smuggling to the nearest law enforcement office, stressing that community cooperation remains vital in preventing the spread of contraband and protecting the local economy.