Manila: The police seized PHP7.6 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested an individual in an operation in Lanao del Norte province early Sunday. Col. Leo Sua, Lanao del Norte police director, identified the arrested individual as alias 'Ab,' 37, of Barangay Claro M. Recto, Maigo town.

According to Philippines News Agency, the suspect was arrested shortly before 1 a.m. in Barangay Libertad, Kolambugan, Lanao del Norte. Col. Sua stated that operatives launched the checkpoint after receiving intelligence on the transport of smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Libertad. A white wing van was flagged down after operatives noticed the driver was not wearing a seat belt. Instead of complying, the driver attempted to breach the checkpoint but was intercepted and blocked by the personnel.

Upon verification, the vehicle matched the description provided in the intelligence report. A subsequent inspection revealed that the vehicle was carrying 190 master cases of undocumented cigarettes. The driver was taken to the Kolambugan Police Station for documentation. The confiscated vehicle and contraband are currently with the Lanao del Norte Provincial Intelligence Unit until they are turned over to the Bureau of Customs.

Col. Sua commended the operating teams for the successful operation and reaffirmed the office's commitment to supporting the government's campaign against smuggling. He emphasized that smuggling deprives the government of revenues and undermines legitimate businesses and the country's economic security.