Bagumbayan, Sultan Kudarat – A joint operation conducted by the Bagumbayan Municipal Police Station and the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company of the Sultan Kudarat Police Provincial Office (SKPPO) led to the seizure of Php 3,060,900 worth of smuggled cigarettes during a COMELEC checkpoint operation on January 23, 2025.
Under the leadership of PBGEN Arnold P. Ardiente, Acting Regional Director of Police Regional Office 12 (PRO 12), authorities intercepted two minivans—one pink and one navy blue—traveling from Lebak to Bagumbayan in Purok 4, Barangay Biwang.
The vehicles were found heavily loaded with 1,100 reams of New Berlin brand cigarettes and 1,750 reams of White Fort brand cigarettes, all lacking the required documentation.
The drivers, identified as alias “Rambo,” 40, a resident of Barangay Kalawag, Isulan, and alias “Jojo,” 35, a resident of Barangay San Emmanuel, Tacurong City, were immediately apprehended. Both suspects are now in custody at the Bagumbayan Municipal Police Station, along with the confiscated contraband, for further investigation and appropriate legal action.
PRO 12 Warns Against Smuggling
PBGEN Ardiente issued a stern warning to individuals involved in illegal activities, stating:
“I want to be absolutely clear: illegal activities, such as smuggling, have no place in the SOCCSKSARGEN region. Let this serve as a strong warning to those engaged in such crimes—PRO 12, working hand in hand with the community and other government agencies, is resolute in its mission to protect our borders and uphold the rule of law.”
The successful operation highlights PRO 12’s ongoing campaign against criminality, terrorism, and smuggling in the region. Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to safeguarding the welfare of SOCCSKSARGEN’s communities and maintaining peace and order.
Further investigation is underway as authorities aim to identify and dismantle the broader network behind the smuggling operation.