The Philippine National Police (PNP) has intensified its crackdown on cigarette smuggling after separate operations in Lanao del Norte and Agusan del Norte led to the arrest of seven suspects and the seizure of more than ₱13.3 million worth of contraband cigarettes.
In a statement on Sunday, the PNP said the operations were carried out on May 8 and 9 as part of its continuing anti-smuggling campaign under the leadership of PNP chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr..
Five men were arrested during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Samburon, Linamon, Lanao del Norte on May 8. Joint operatives from local police units and Regional Intelligence Units intercepted 289 boxes of smuggled cigarettes estimated to be worth ₱11.56 million.
Authorities also recovered four vehicles allegedly used to transport the illegal goods. The suspects and confiscated items were turned over to the Linamon Municipal Police Station for proper disposition and filing of charges.
In a separate anti-smuggling operation in Jabonga, Agusan del Norte on May 9, police arrested two more suspects and confiscated 2,311 reams and 35 packs of smuggled cigarettes valued at around ₱1.8 million.
A utility vehicle believed to have been used in transporting the contraband was likewise seized. The arrested individuals and recovered items were placed under the custody of the Jabonga Municipal Police Station.
Nartatez said the operations reflect the PNP’s continuing efforts to curb illegal trade activities that affect legitimate businesses and deprive the government of revenue.
“Illegal smuggling operations weaken lawful commerce and fuel other criminal activities. The PNP will continue to strengthen enforcement efforts and hold accountable those involved in these unlawful schemes,” he said.
He also warned smugglers against using communities as routes for illegal trade activities.
“Hindi natin hahayaang gamitin ang ating mga komunidad bilang daanan ng ilegal na kalakalan. Patuloy nating tututukan ang mga grupong kumikita sa gawaing labag sa batas,” the PNP chief said.
The anti-smuggling operations were conducted in line with the PNP’s Focused Agenda and its Enhanced Managing Police Operations program aimed at addressing economic sabotage and other crimes affecting public order and economic security.
Nartatez also commended the operating units for intercepting the illegal shipments before they reached local markets.
“These accomplishments show that relentless police presence and sustained enforcement actions can significantly disrupt illicit trade networks across the country,” he said.
“Malinaw ang mensahe natin sa mga sangkot sa smuggling—mahaharap kayo sa batas at hindi titigil ang kapulisan sa pagtugis sa inyo.”