SOURCE: RPIO PRO10
CAMP ALAGAR, Cagayan de Oro City – Police Regional Office 10 (PRO10) successfully intercepted a shipment of smuggled cigarettes worth PhP1.6 million during a PNP Overlapping COMELEC Checkpoint in Macasandig, Cagayan de Oro City on February 14, 2025.
The operation resulted in the seizure of 40 boxes of Modern-brand cigarettes containing 20,000 packs. The contraband was being transported in a Toyota Van Hi-ace driven by alias “Cha-cha”, 31 years old, with passenger alias Rodnie, 38 years old, both residents of Minsalirak, Quezon, Bukidnon.
Initial investigation revealed that the smuggled cigarettes were picked up in Macasandig following instructions from alias Titi and were intended for delivery to alias Yordan in Barangay Marangiran, Quezon, Bukidnon. The driver admitted that this was their third time transporting similar contraband.
Checkpoint personnel flagged down the vehicle and asked for documentation, which the suspects failed to provide. Alias Rodnie managed to escape during the inspection and remains at large.
The confiscated items and the vehicle have been turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition.
PBGEN JAYSEN C DE GUZMAN, Regional Director, PRO10, commended the vigilance of the personnel manning the checkpoint and reaffirmed the PNP’s intensified efforts against smuggling activities in Northern Mindanao.
“This successful interception highlights the effectiveness of our PNP Overlapping COMELEC Checkpoint, which serves as a crucial tool in curbing illegal activities. We remain steadfast in safeguarding our borders, enforcing the law, and holding violators accountable,” he said.
PRO10 urges the public to report any suspicious activities related to smuggling and illegal trade.
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