BUTUAN CITY, Philippines — The Police Regional Office 13 (PRO 13) arrested 10 individuals and seized an estimated ₱792,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in a series of police operations conducted across the Caraga region from September 20 to 27, 2026, as authorities intensified their campaign against the illegal trade and movement of untaxed tobacco products.
PRO 13 Director PBGen Rolindo M. Suguilon said the operations were part of the regional police force’s continuing efforts to disrupt smuggling activities and prevent illegally transported products from reaching communities and local markets.
One of the latest arrests was made in Dapa, Surigao del Norte, where police apprehended a 40-year-old man identified by the alias “Norsan,” a resident of Kawit 2, Barangay 1, Dapa.
The arrest was carried out on September 26 in Barangay 7, Poblacion, Dapa, during a joint buy-bust operation conducted by personnel of the Regional Intelligence Division 13 and the Dapa Municipal Police Station.
Police said the operation resulted in the confiscation of 129 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱161,250.
The seizure formed part of the larger haul recorded by PRO 13 during various anti-smuggling operations conducted throughout Caraga during the period. In total, authorities reported the arrest of 10 suspects and the confiscation of suspected smuggled cigarettes valued at approximately ₱792,000.
The police operations underscore the continuing enforcement pressure against the illegal cigarette trade, which authorities say involves the movement and distribution of tobacco products outside legitimate commercial channels.
Beyond the loss of government revenues associated with illicit tobacco products, authorities have also emphasized the potential impact of smuggling on legitimate businesses that comply with regulatory and tax requirements.
Suguilon reaffirmed that PRO 13 would continue strengthening intelligence-driven operations and coordination among police units to identify and disrupt the movement of suspected smuggled products.
“PNP Caraga remains resolute in its fight against smuggling. We will sustain and intensify our efforts to disrupt the illegal movement of smuggled products, hold those involved accountable, and protect our communities and legitimate businesses from its harmful effects,” Suguilon said.
He also urged residents to remain vigilant and immediately report information that could assist authorities in identifying suspected smuggling activities.
“We likewise call on the public to remain vigilant and report information on smuggling activities to the police,” he added.
The latest operations reflect PRO 13’s continued reliance on intelligence gathering, police coordination and targeted enforcement to curb the movement of suspected contraband across Caraga.
Authorities said the campaign will continue as police units monitor possible routes and activities associated with the distribution of suspected smuggled goods in the region.