Police authorities recovered a motorcycle loaded with three master cases of San Marino cigarettes, valued at approximately ₱75,000, after its unidentified rider abandoned the vehicle and fled during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Matibay, Lamitan City, Basilan, on November 15, 2026.
The recovery was made by a composite team from the Lamitan City Police Station, Lamitan Mobile Law Enforcement Team (MLET), 1403rd Regional Mobile Force Company (RMFC) of the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-B, and the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) while conducting a checkpoint operation as part of intensified efforts to prevent smuggling and other illegal activities.
According to the joint accomplishment report, the operating personnel observed a black, skeleton-type Honda Wave 100 motorcycle without a license plate approaching their checkpoint. When the rider was approximately 30 meters away from the police position, he suddenly dismounted and fled on foot after noticing the presence of law enforcement personnel.
The rider left the motorcycle behind, along with several packages secured to the vehicle, prompting the authorities to inspect its contents.
Upon examination, police discovered three master cases of San Marino cigarettes. Each master case contained 50 reams, bringing the total recovered quantity to 150 reams.
Authorities estimated the value of each master case at ₱25,000, placing the total estimated value of the recovered cigarette products at ₱75,000.
The operation was led by personnel of the Lamitan MLET under Team Leader PSSg Abubakar S. Suhaili, under the supervision of PLT Khaharudin G. Diamelon, Station Chief. The Lamitan City Police Station served as the lead unit, with its team led by Deputy Chief of Police PCPT Jasfreel P. Acma under the leadership of Chief of Police PLTCOL Joel C. Tuttuh.
Personnel from the 1403rd RMFC-RMFB 14-B and the 1st PMFC also participated in the operation.
The checkpoint was part of coordinated law enforcement efforts to prevent, deter, and suppress smuggling, particularly the unlawful transportation and distribution of untaxed or illicit tobacco products. Authorities also cited the operation’s broader objectives of strengthening police visibility, maintaining public safety, and securing communities within their area of responsibility.
While the motorcycle and cigarette products were recovered, the rider managed to escape. His identity and the circumstances surrounding the transportation of the cigarettes remain subject to further investigation.
The incident highlights the continuing challenge faced by authorities in monitoring the movement of potentially illicit goods through road networks in Basilan. The recovery of the cigarette shipment may provide investigators with leads to establish its origin, intended destination, and the individuals possibly involved in its transportation and distribution.