Carmen: Authorities seized PHP3 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a joint operation in Carmen, Davao del Norte on Thursday, according to Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM).

According to Philippines News Agency, CGDSEM stated that its Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Carmen initiated the operation in collaboration with partner law enforcement agencies. This action followed intelligence gathered by the Coast Guard Intelligence Group Southeastern Mindanao regarding the transport of illicit cigarettes.

At approximately 5:30 a.m., personnel from the Carmen Police Office discovered an abandoned vehicle near the town proper, which was loaded with illegal cigarettes. Initial reports suggested that the suspects left the vehicle and fled, leaving the cargo near the Tala River.

"In response to the report, CGSS Carmen coordinated with partner agencies and deployed personnel to the site," the CGDSEM statement detailed. The operation led to the recovery of 121 master cases of Bosqu cigarettes, which lacked the necessary health graphic warnings.

The seized cigarettes were handed over to the Carmen police for documentation, inventory, custody, and further investigation. "Authorities reported no untoward incident during the operation," CGDSEM added.