COTABATO CITY — Authorities seized nearly ₱3 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in a predawn operation in a secluded area in Barangay Kalanganan 2, highlighting ongoing efforts to curb illicit trade and tax evasion in the region.
Operatives of the Cotabato City Police Office (CCPO) discovered the contraband at a hidden site in Timako following a tip received by Police Station 3 regarding the presence of a truck allegedly transporting illegal goods.
According to CCPO Director Col. Jibin Bongcayao, responding personnel immediately proceeded to the area, where they found an abandoned Isuzu truck bearing plate number MAJ 1273 loaded with boxes of cigarettes.
However, unidentified suspects managed to evade arrest after noticing the approaching police officers, leaving behind both the vehicle and its illicit cargo.
A subsequent inspection revealed approximately 70 master cases of cigarettes under the “Bosqu” brand, with an estimated market value of nearly ₱3 million. Authorities believe the products were smuggled into the country to avoid paying proper duties and taxes, depriving the government of significant revenue and violating existing customs and taxation laws.
The seized items are currently under the custody of Police Station 3 and are being prepared for formal turnover to the Bureau of Customs for further investigation and proper disposition.
Police said charges are being readied against those responsible, including violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and other related laws.
Meanwhile, follow-up operations and a deeper investigation are ongoing to identify and apprehend the individuals behind the illegal activity. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling efforts to protect legitimate businesses and safeguard government revenues.