MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — A police staff sergeant and his companion were arrested at dawn Thursday after authorities intercepted their van loaded with nearly ₱1.96 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at a checkpoint in Barangay JAS.
The suspects were identified as Staff Sgt. Abdulnasser Untong, 40, assigned in Malabang, and Ansary Barua, 42, a resident of Malabang. Both are now detained following the seizure of 50 boxes, or 2,500 reams, of San Marino cigarettes believed to have originated from Indonesia.
The suspects were flagged down around 4:00 a.m. while onboard a white Toyota Hi-Ace with plate number NDG 3631. According to PNP-BARMM spokesperson Lt. Col. Jopy Ventura, the men came from Barangay Banday and were en route to Marawi City when stopped at the checkpoint.
Instead of complying, the two allegedly attempted to flee, but police operatives—already tipped off by residents—quickly pursued and cornered them.
Provincial and regional police officials confirmed that the van was under surveillance after authorities received reports about the planned delivery of smuggled cigarettes to buyers in Marawi City. Intelligence from local executives and Maranao traditional leaders helped pave the way for the successful interception.
The confiscated cigarettes, valued at ₱1,962,500, are now under police custody and will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition.
Police Regional Office–BARMM Director Brig. Gen. Jaysen De Guzman said the operation demonstrates the region’s intensified campaign against smuggling—adding that the involvement of a police officer makes the case even more serious.
Charges related to smuggling and violation of customs laws are being prepared against Untong and Barua.
Authorities emphasize that the crackdown will continue, with local communities urged to report similar activities to curb the flow of illicit goods in Lanao del Sur and neighboring areas.