The Philippine National Police (PNP) intercepted a cigarette smuggling operation worth P3.45 million in Palawan, resulting in the arrest of one suspect during a predawn operation on April 28.
Police identified the operation site as a coastal area in Sitio Padang, Barangay Pulot Shore in Sofronio Española, where joint operatives carried out a buy-bust at around 1:10 am. The suspect was apprehended for violating Republic Act No. 10643 or the “Graphic Health Warnings Law.”
Seized from the suspect were 82 master cases of assorted smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of P3,485,000, along with marked money used in the operation. The confiscated items and the suspect are now under the custody of the local police station for proper legal proceedings.
PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the successful operation reflects the police force’s continued push against illegal trade, particularly in coastal communities often exploited by smugglers.
“This operation reinforces our commitment to go after smuggling networks that exploit our coastal areas. We will continue to pursue intelligence-driven actions to cut off illegal supply chains and protect lawful trade,” he said.
Nartatez emphasized that authorities will sustain intensified monitoring and enforcement efforts in vulnerable areas to prevent similar activities. He also assured the public that the police will remain firm in its campaign against smuggling and other illicit operations.
The crackdown forms part of the PNP’s broader strategy to enhance operational efficiency and deliver results-driven policing, aligned with directives from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. to curb illegal activities nationwide.
Police officials reiterated that stricter coastal surveillance and continued coordination with partner agencies will remain key to stopping the entry and distribution of contraband goods in the country.