Pantar, Lanao del Norte – Law enforcement authorities intercepted a large shipment of alleged smuggled cigarettes at the Regional Border Control Point in Barangay Campong, Pantar, Lanao del Norte, on February 17, 2025.
Personnel of the 1005th Maneuver Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 10 (1005th MC, RMFB 10), conducted a routine checkpoint operation when they flagged down two Toyota Vios vehicles—a red and a blue unit—at approximately 5:55 AM. Upon inspection, officers discovered assorted smuggled cigarettes in plain view inside the vehicles.
The verification and inventory process, which concluded at 8:55 AM, revealed a total of 1,036 reams of smuggled cigarettes. The seized contraband included 400 reams of Green New Far brand cigarettes, 186 reams of Red New Berlin brand cigarettes, and 400 reams of Modern brand cigarettes.
Barangay Campong officials witnessed the confiscation process, ensuring transparency in law enforcement operations. The arrested individuals are currently in the custody of the Pantar Municipal Police Station (MPS) for further legal proceedings.
Authorities have announced that the confiscated goods, along with the vehicles used for transport, will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in Iligan City for appropriate action. Smuggling cases remain a concern in border areas, prompting intensified monitoring efforts by law enforcement agencies.