Northern mindanao: The Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 has successfully confiscated over PHP8.6 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in a series of operations conducted from June 20 to 26.
According to Philippines News Agency, the most recent operation occurred before dawn on Friday when PRO-10 operatives intercepted an estimated PHP4.04 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes. This operation, which took place during a shoreline patrol along the coast of P-3, Bangaan, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, also resulted in the arrest of six individuals.
PRO-10 Director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano stated that the operations were part of heightened security measures that included stricter highway checkpoints and enhanced maritime security. "This successful shoreline interdiction demonstrates PRO-10's unwavering commitment to protecting our coastal borders from illegal smuggling activities," he affirmed.
The weeklong operation saw joint PRO-10 units seizing additional contraband in different locations. On June 25, smuggled cigarettes valued at PHP800,000 were confiscated in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental. A shipment worth PHP1.2 million was intercepted in Iligan City on June 23, while PHP240,000 worth of contraband was seized in Kalilangan, Bukidnon. Earlier, on June 20 and 21, a joint operation in Linamon, Lanao del Norte, and Tangub City, Misamis Occidental, yielded PHP2.04 million in smuggled goods.
