Datu Odin Sinsuat, Maguindanao del Norte (July 31, 2025) — Authorities successfully intercepted ₱1.3 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at a Philippine National Police (PNP) checkpoint in Barangay Poblacion Dalican, Datu Odin Sinsuat (DOS), Maguindanao del Norte on Thursday afternoon.
The contraband, consisting of at least 35 master cases, 87 reams, and a total of 122 boxes of imported cigarettes—including brands such as Canon Menthol 100’s and Green Hill Menthol from Indonesia—was being transported aboard a van-type truck bound for buyers in nearby towns in Maguindanao del Sur and Maguindanao del Norte.
The operation was spearheaded by the Datu Odin Sinsuat Municipal Police Station under the leadership of PLtCol. Esmael Madin, following intelligence reports on the smuggling attempt. The checkpoint was jointly manned by local police and municipal officials, including Mayor Abdulmain Abas and Vice Mayor Bobsteel Sinsuat.
Apprehended during the operation were two suspects identified as Rodel Lemon, 38, of Barangay Sta. Barbara, Zamboanga City, and Richard Aninion, 29, of Astorga, Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur. Both are currently detained at the DOS Police Station for procedural questioning.
Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR) Director Brig. Gen. Jaysen De Guzman lauded the local officials and police personnel for their coordinated efforts in the anti-smuggling campaign.
The confiscated cigarettes will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper disposition. Authorities vowed to intensify efforts to curb the entry and distribution of smuggled goods in the Bangsamoro region.