Manila: Police in Northern Mindanao confiscated PHP209.9 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and illegal mining equipment from January to November 2025, officials reported Wednesday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano, the regional police director, announced that anti-smuggling operations resulted in the seizure of PHP155.1 million worth of goods across 293 operations. Meanwhile, 73 anti-illegal mining raids led to the confiscation of PHP54.7 million in equipment and the arrest of 93 individuals.
Brig. Gen. Abrahano emphasized the significance of the region as a crucial transit point for these smuggled items. Checkpoints have played a pivotal role in intercepting the distribution of contraband, preventing its sale in other parts of Mindanao. He highlighted a specific operation on November 26 in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, where PHP8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes were intercepted.
Abrahano stated that the intensified efforts are in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to target activities identified as "economic saboteurs." He also noted a 17.42 percent decline in index crimes in the region compared to the same period last year.
