KORONADAL CITY, South Cotabato — Authorities intercepted more than ₱232,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes and arrested a male suspect during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Paraiso, Koronadal City, as law enforcement agencies intensified their campaign against the illegal tobacco trade.
The operation, conducted on August 6, 2026, was carried out by personnel of the South Cotabato Police Provincial Office (SCPPO) in coordination with the South Cotabato Highway Patrol Team (SCHPT).
Police confiscated 272 reams of suspected smuggled Gajah Baru cigarettes with an estimated value of ₱232,712.32 after officers stopped a gray Suzuki Wagon R that was traveling without a license plate during a routine checkpoint inspection.
According to authorities, the vehicle was flagged down for verification after officers noticed it had no visible license plate. During the inspection, police discovered the large volume of cigarettes being transported inside the vehicle.
When asked to present documents authorizing the transport and legality of the tobacco products, the driver failed to provide the necessary permits and supporting papers. The cigarettes were subsequently verified by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and confirmed to be smuggled.
The driver was immediately placed under arrest and informed of his constitutional rights before being taken into police custody. Authorities said the suspect will face appropriate charges for violations of customs and other applicable laws related to the unlawful transport and possession of smuggled goods.
The confiscated cigarettes were turned over to the proper authorities for documentation and the filing of criminal complaints.
Police noted that the operation forms part of the government’s continuing crackdown on the illegal trade of tobacco products, which deprives the government of millions of pesos in tax revenues while undermining legitimate businesses and fueling illicit trade networks.
The SCPPO reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling operations across South Cotabato through sustained checkpoint inspections, intelligence-driven operations, and close coordination with partner law enforcement agencies, including the Bureau of Customs.
Authorities also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities involving the transport or sale of smuggled goods, emphasizing that public cooperation remains essential in curbing illicit trade and safeguarding government revenues while helping maintain peace and order throughout the province.