Calanogas, Lanao del Sur – January 29, 2025 – The Lanao del Sur Police Provincial Office (LDS PPO) lauded the personnel of Calanogas Municipal Police Station (MPS) and the 64th Infantry Battalion of the Philippine Army for their successful joint anti-smuggling operation. The operation, conducted through a checkpoint in Barangay Piksan, Calanogas, resulted in the interception of a significant cache of smuggled goods.
At approximately 4:18 AM, authorities flagged down an Isuzu Wing Van without a plate number en route to Marawi City. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to be carrying 570 cases, equivalent to 28,500 reams, of smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of Php 9,405,000.00.
Two individuals, identified only by their aliases “Al” and “Nor,” both residents of Tugaya, Lanao del Sur, were arrested during the operation. The suspects are now under the custody of the Calanogas MPS and are facing criminal charges for violating Republic Act 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Meanwhile, the confiscated smuggled cigarettes and the intercepted Isuzu Wing Van will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in Cagayan de Oro City for proper disposition.
Authorities emphasized the importance of continued vigilance and inter-agency coordination in combating smuggling activities in the region. The LDS PPO reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the law and preventing illicit trade, which undermines the country’s economy and security.
Further investigations are underway to determine the extent of the smuggling network and possible connections to other illicit activities. The LDS PPO encourages the public to report any suspicious activities that may help in curbing smuggling and other crimes in the province.