Linamon, Lanao del Norte — Philippines — Authorities intercepted an estimated ₱880,000 worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation conducted in the early morning of May 14, 2026, in Barangay Samburon, Linamon, as part of an intensified anti-smuggling drive in Northern Mindanao.
The operation was carried out by personnel of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office, in coordination with the Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA), Provincial Intelligence Unit (PIU-LDN PPO), 1005th Regional Mobile Force Battalion (RMFB) 10, and the Linamon Municipal Police Station.
Authorities flagged down two Bajaj “bao-bao” tricycles transporting multiple boxes suspected to contain smuggled cigarettes. The vehicles were intercepted at a checkpoint established in the area as part of ongoing security and anti-illegal trade operations.
Upon inspection, the drivers—identified only by their aliases “Johayver” and “Oma,” both residents of Poblacion, Linamon—were unable to present any legal documents or permits to justify the transport of the cargo.
Further examination of the load led to the discovery of 22 master cases of suspected “Modern” brand cigarettes, equivalent to approximately 1,100 reams, with an estimated market value of ₱880,000.
Law enforcers immediately confiscated the contraband and impounded the two vehicles used in the transport. The seized items were taken into the custody of the 1st PMFC pending proper turnover to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition and possible filing of charges under anti-smuggling laws.
Meanwhile, the two drivers were brought to the Linamon Municipal Police Station for documentation and further investigation to determine their possible involvement in a wider smuggling network.
Authorities said the operation underscores their continued crackdown on the illegal entry and distribution of contraband goods in Lanao del Norte and nearby areas, in line with efforts to protect legitimate trade and government revenue.
The investigation is ongoing.