24-06-2025
8 nabbed, P20M alleged smuggled cigarettes seized in MisOr
Eight people were arrested and alleged smuggled cigarettes worth around P20 million were seized in Manticao, Misamis Oriental.
Personnel of the Manticao Municipal Police Station launched the operation after receiving information about alleged contraband items getting unloaded from a fishing vessel, known locally as 'kompit,' in Barangay Punta Silum.
Authorities allegedly caught the suspects in the act of unloading boxes of cigarettes along the seawall.
During the search, authorities discovered more contraband items inside a truck van parked near the area.
Police seized around 500 cases of cigarettes, the fishing vessel, and the truck.
The suspects arrested are residents of Manticao, Zamboanga City, and Iligan City.
They may face charges for alleged violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863), Graphic Health Warning Law (RA 10643), and Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act (R.A. 12022).
Based on investigation, the alleged smuggled cigarettes reportedly came from Basilan and were transported to Manticao.
'This successful operation is a clear demonstration of our continued efforts to secure our borders and uphold the law. I commend the operating units for a job well done. Let us remain steadfast in our mission to protect the public from the dangers of illicit trade,' Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) Director, Brigadier General Rolindo Suguilon, said.
