RTR, Agusan del Norte — Law enforcement operatives seized smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals in a joint buy-bust operation conducted on April 13, 2025, in Barangay San Antonio, Remedios T. Romualdez (RTR), Agusan del Norte.
According to Police Colonel April Mark C. Young, Provincial Director of the Agusan del Norte Police Provincial Office, the successful operation was carried out by personnel from the Agusan del Norte Police Intelligence Unit, in coordination with the RTR Municipal Police Station.
The suspects, identified only by their aliases “Rowaida” and “Jomaer,” both 36 years old and residents of Cabadbaran City, were caught in possession of smuggled cigarettes during the operation. Rowaida, a businesswoman, and Jomaer, a tricycle driver, are both of Maranao descent and were apprehended in Purok-2A of Barangay San Antonio.
Authorities recovered 18 reams of Green Cannon Menthol cigarettes and 8 reams with 5 packs of Red Modern cigarettes. A blue Kawasaki Barako 175 tricycle allegedly used for transporting the contraband was also confiscated.
“This accomplishment highlights the vital role of the public in combating the proliferation of smuggled cigarettes in our province. By providing relevant information on crimes or illegal activities, we can immediately respond or launch police operations,” said PCOL Young.
The suspects are now under police custody as further investigation is ongoing. Authorities have reiterated their call for continued public support in curbing the entry and distribution of smuggled goods in the province.