NASIPIT, Agusan del Norte — Authorities intercepted smuggled cigarettes worth an estimated ₱135,000 during a checkpoint operation conducted by the Philippine National Police through the 1st Agusan del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company at its headquarters checkpoint in Barangay Camagong.
According to police reports, two suspected smugglers were arrested while allegedly transporting illegal cigarettes intended for delivery in the area. The suspects were identified only by their aliases “Eugenio,” 27, and “Pataton,” 26, both residents of Barangay Kauswagan in Cabadbaran City.
Operatives manning the checkpoint reportedly noticed the contraband through plain view while inspecting a Metallic Orange Toyota Wigo driven by the suspects. This prompted a visual search of the vehicle, which led to the discovery of approximately 800 reams of smuggled Canon cigarettes concealed inside.
Police immediately confiscated the illegal cigarettes along with the vehicle used in the transport of the goods. Authorities estimated the value of the seized cigarettes at around ₱135,000.
The suspects are now under police custody as authorities prepare charges against them for alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10643, also known as the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act.
The checkpoint operation took place at the 1st ADNPMFC headquarters in Barangay Camagong, Nasipit, where the suspects were intercepted before they could allegedly distribute the smuggled goods.
Police said the operation is part of the continuing campaign of law enforcement authorities to curb smuggling and other illegal activities in the region. Officials also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious transport of goods that may be linked to smuggling operations.