uthorities seized an estimated P3.9 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a checkpoint operation Saturday in Riverside, Barangay Kalaneg, Maitum, Saragani Province.
According to the Maitum Municipal Police Station, the operation began after they received a phone call from the 1204th Mobile Company, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 12, reporting the presence of smuggled cigarettes in the area. An alert team, along with a duty investigator, RID-12 Tracker Team Alpha, Sarangani Police Provincial Office, and the Provincial Intelligence Unit, quickly responded.
Personnel from the 1204th Mobile Company flagged down an Isuzu Forward truck driven by an individual identified only as Rey, 26, a resident of Matanao, Davao del Sur. His passenger, known as Cris, 22, from Davao City, was also apprehended.
Upon inspection, authorities discovered 100 boxes of GreenHills cigarettes concealed under a tarpaulin. However, strong winds blew off the cover, revealing the contraband. The seized items were valued at approximately P3,929,000.
The suspects were taken to the Maitum Municipal Police Station and will face charges for violations of the Graphic Health Warning Law, the Anti-Agricultural Smuggling Act of 2016, and Republic Act No. 12022.
The confiscated cigarettes will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs in General Santos City for proper disposition.
