KOLAMBUGAN, Lanao del Norte — Authorities intercepted and seized an estimated ₱640,000 worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals during a routine checkpoint operation in Barangay Libertad, Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte on Sunday, June 21.
The successful operation was conducted at around 9:40 a.m. by personnel of the 1st Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) of the Lanao del Norte Police Provincial Office (LDN PPO) at the 2nd Platoon checkpoint in Barangay Libertad.
The checkpoint operation was carried out through the joint efforts of multiple law enforcement and security agencies, including the Lanao del Norte Maritime Police Station, 2nd PMFC LDN PPO, Provincial Intelligence Unit, 1005th Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Lanao del Norte, 53rd Mechanized Company of the 5th Mechanized Battalion, Regional Intelligence Division 10, and the Kolambugan Municipal Police Station.
During the operation, authorities flagged down a red Kia Bongo Double Cab Dropside bearing plate number MAG-3930 for routine inspection.
The vehicle was driven by a 36-year-old man identified only by the alias “Alka,” a resident of Dipolog City, while his passenger, identified as “Shamer,” 37, is a resident of Zamboanga City.
Upon inspection, checkpoint personnel noticed several boxes of cigarettes in plain view inside the vehicle. The officers immediately conducted verification and requested the driver to present documents proving the legality of the cargo.
However, the driver reportedly failed to provide any valid documentation supporting the lawful transport or ownership of the goods, prompting authorities to hold the vehicle, its occupants, and the suspected contraband for further verification.
To ensure transparency and compliance with procedures, barangay officials from Barangay Libertad were summoned to witness the inventory and seizure process conducted at the scene.
Authorities confiscated the following items during the operation:
- One red Kia Bongo Double Cab Dropside with plate number MAG-3930;
- One ignition key of the vehicle; and
- Sixteen master cases of Bosqu cigarettes containing a total of 800 reams, with an estimated market value of ₱640,000.
Following the inventory and documentation procedures, the two individuals were brought to the Kolambugan Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and processing.
The suspects were later referred to the Bureau of Customs for appropriate action and investigation. Meanwhile, the seized cigarettes and vehicle remain under the custody of the 1st PMFC, LDN PPO pending their formal turnover to customs authorities.
Lanao del Norte Provincial Director PCOL Leo De Leon Sua commended the operating units for their vigilance and effective inter-agency coordination that led to the successful interception of the suspected smuggled goods.
“This accomplishment highlights the importance of sustained checkpoint operations and close coordination among law enforcement and partner agencies in preventing the entry and transport of illegal goods within our province,” Sua said.
He emphasized that the LDN PPO remains committed to supporting government efforts against smuggling and other unlawful activities that undermine legitimate trade and deprive the government of much-needed revenues.
“We assure the public that our personnel will continue to intensify security operations and enforce the law without fear or favor,” he added.
Police officials also urged the public to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious activities that may help prevent criminal activities and contribute to maintaining peace and order throughout the province.
The seizure underscores the continuing campaign of law enforcement agencies against the illegal transport and distribution of smuggled products, which authorities say not only violate customs laws but also negatively impact government revenue collection and legitimate businesses.