MALABANG, Lanao del Sur — Joint police operatives arrested a suspect and seized more than ₱2.05 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes during an intelligence-driven anti-criminality checkpoint operation in Barangay Rebokun, Malabang, Lanao del Sur, on the evening of July 22, 2026.
The successful operation was carried out by personnel of the Malabang Municipal Police Station (MPS), the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC), and the Calanogas Municipal Police Station (MPS) as part of intensified efforts to curb the transport and distribution of contraband products in the province.
According to police reports, the operating units intercepted a gray Toyota Hi-Ace van bearing Plate No. NKT 8925, which was reportedly traveling from Barangay Montay, Malabang, en route to Marawi City.
During a lawful inspection at the checkpoint, authorities discovered several master cases of cigarettes believed to have been smuggled into the country.
Police said the driver suddenly attempted to flee after the discovery of the contraband, prompting authorities to immediately launch a dragnet operation. The coordinated pursuit led to the successful arrest of the suspect and the recovery of both the vehicle and its illegal cargo.
₱2.05 Million Worth of Contraband
Authorities confiscated a total of 2,400 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes with an estimated combined value of ₱2,053,632.00, consisting of:
- 1,400 reams of “Modern” cigarettes valued at ₱1,197,952.00; and
- 1,000 reams of “SAN MARINO” cigarettes valued at ₱855,680.00.
The seized tobacco products are believed to have been transported without the necessary customs documentation, making them subject to seizure under existing customs and tax laws.
Investigation Ongoing
The arrested suspect, together with the confiscated vehicle and alleged smuggled cigarettes, is currently under the custody of the Malabang Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
Authorities said the recovered contraband will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper disposition, verification, and further legal proceedings.
The operation underscores the continuing campaign of law enforcement agencies against cigarette smuggling, which remains a major concern due to its impact on government tax revenues and its links to illegal trade networks operating across parts of Mindanao.
Police vowed to sustain intelligence-driven checkpoint operations and strengthen coordination with other government agencies to prevent the movement of smuggled goods and hold those involved in illegal trading activities accountable under the law.