World · Philippines Bureau
Police bust smuggled cigarette operation in Sultan Kudarat
Authorities in Mindanao have seized over P427,000 worth of contraband cigarettes following an early morning raid on a copra dryer facility. The operation underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement to combat illegal tobacco trade in the region.
LSN Philippines ·
Police in Sultan Kudarat apprehended a significant cache of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a pre-dawn operation Wednesday in the remote village of Palimbang. Officers from the Palimbang police station discovered boxes of illicit cigarettes stored at a copra dryer facility in Sitio Bakung, Barangay Kolong-Kolong, at approximately 1:40 a.m., according to the Police Regional Office 12.
The confiscated contraband has an estimated value of P427,850, marking another notable seizure in the ongoing campaign against cigarette smuggling in Mindanao. The discovery came after police received credible information regarding the illegal storage site, prompting authorities to conduct the raid.
The operation reflects the persistent challenge of smuggled tobacco products entering the Philippines through coastal and remote areas. Sultan Kudarat, located in the Soccsksargen region of Mindanao, has been identified as a key transit point for contraband goods destined for domestic markets.
Investigations into the operation are ongoing, with authorities working to identify individuals involved in the smuggling network. The case has been turned over to appropriate authorities for further legal proceedings.