MIDSAYAP, COTABATO – Authorities intercepted ₱4.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during an anti-smuggling operation in Barangay Sadaan, Midsayap, Cotabato on May 26, 2025, as part of Police Regional Office 12’s intensified campaign against illicit trade in the region.
The operation was conducted by a joint team from the Regional Intelligence Division 12, Midsayap Municipal Police Station, 2nd Cotabato Provincial Mobile Force Company, Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Cotabato Police Provincial Office, and the North Cotabato Highway Patrol Team.
The suspect, identified only by the alias “Jimmy,” a 41-year-old resident of Misamis Oriental, was apprehended while driving a wing van from Cotabato City to Kabacan. During the inspection, authorities discovered 120 boxes of Walton brand cigarettes, each containing 50 reams. The total estimated market value of the seized contraband was pegged at ₱4,714,800.
The smuggled goods and the transport vehicle were secured and will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition. The suspect is currently in the custody of Midsayap Municipal Police Station and will face charges for violating Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and Republic Act 10643, the Graphic Health Warnings Law.
PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 12, emphasized the agency’s ongoing commitment to curbing illegal trade in the region.
“We remain resolute in our campaign against smuggling. This successful operation accentuates our commitment to safeguarding our communities from illicit trade that endangers public health and deprives the government of vital revenue,” Ardiente said.