Authorities confiscated over P9.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a Comelec checkpoint operation in Barangay Katubao, Kiamba, Sarangani Province.
The operation, conducted led by the 3rd Mobile Platoon of the 2nd Sarangani Provincial Mobile Force Company under the supervision of PLtCol Kirby Bajo, alongside the Region 12 Intelligence Division (RID-12) tracker team and the Bureau of Customs.
A 10-wheeler dump truck en route to Kiamba was flagged down during the routine checkpoint. Upon inspection, authorities discovered numerous cartons of cigarettes concealed inside the truck. The driver, identified as Gary Paradero, a resident of Purok Isaac Abalayan, San Jose, Digos, Davao del Sur, failed to present proper documentation for the cargo.
The confiscated smuggled cigarettes and the driver were taken into custody and turned over to the Bureau of Customs for further investigation.
The interception highlights the continued vigilance of authorities in curbing illegal activities and protecting legitimate trade. Smuggling not only evades taxes but also harms lawful businesses and the country’s economy.
Investigations are ongoing to determine the origin of the smuggled goods and any potential network behind the operation.
Authorities remind the public to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling to help strengthen anti-smuggling measures across the country.
