Politics · Philippines Bureau
Police seize P385,000 in smuggled cigarettes in Sultan Kudarat
Authorities in Palimbang have confiscated a large shipment of illegal cigarettes valued at nearly P400,000 following a tip-off from community members. The operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat contraband trade in the region.
LSN Philippines ·
Police personnel from the Palimbang municipal station in Sultan Kudarat recovered boxes of smuggled cigarettes during enforcement operations on Friday, October 16, acting on information provided by concerned citizens.
The contraband, valued at P385,000, was discovered stacked and partially concealed at a location in the municipality. Brig. Gen. Alan Manibog, director of the Police Regional Office for Region 12, confirmed the seizure and commended the police unit's swift response to the community intelligence.
The operation underscores the persistent challenge of cigarette smuggling across South Cotabato and neighboring provinces. Smuggled tobacco products continue to undermine tax revenues and disadvantage legitimate retailers operating in the region.
Authorities did not immediately report any arrests in connection with the seizure. The Palimbang police have turned over the confiscated cigarettes to appropriate government agencies for proper disposition and further investigation.