Maluso, Basilan – June 2, 2025 — Authorities recovered an estimated PHP 941,500 worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes in a joint law enforcement operation in Sitio Kapisanan, Barangay Taberlongan, Maluso, Basilan.
The operation, conducted at around 1:40 PM, was the result of intensified surveillance efforts in response to reports of drug-related activities in the area. It was carried out by the Provincial Drug Enforcement Unit (PDEU), the 4th Maneuver Platoon of the 2nd Basilan Provincial Mobile Force Company, and the Maluso Municipal Police Station.
During the operation, personnel discovered 51 assorted master cases of suspected smuggled cigarettes abandoned inside a hut. The seized items are believed to be in violation of Republic Act No. 10863 or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and Executive Order No. 245, which regulates cigarette manufacturing and trade.
The confiscated goods included:
- 30 cases of BRAVO Red
- 1 case of BRAVO White
- 2 cases of RS
- 4 cases of FORT
- 12 cases of CANNON
- 2 cases of ASTRO White
The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Basilan was immediately alerted and dispatched a team to assist in the investigation. A physical inventory was conducted on-site in the presence of witnesses, following standard procedures under R.A. 10863.
The items are currently in the custody of the Maluso Municipal Police Station for documentation and are set to be turned over to the BOC in Isabela City for appropriate legal action.
Police Brigadier General Romeo J. Macapaz, Regional Director of Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR), lauded the operatives for their swift and coordinated action. He emphasized PRO BAR’s continued efforts to combat smuggling and called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities that may undermine peace, order, and development in the region.