Carmen: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered a deeper investigation into possible inter-regional smuggling networks operating across Mindanao following Thursday's seizure of PHP22.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of eight suspects in Carmen, Davao del Norte.

According to Philippines News Agency, the latest seizure came a day after authorities confiscated PHP13.25 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Picong, Lanao del Sur. PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. stated that investigators have been directed to ascertain connections between this shipment and previous smuggling cases in Mindanao, aiming to identify any syndicates, financiers, or networks behind these illegal activities.

He further mentioned that investigators are looking into possible links among recent cases to determine whether common routes and groups are involved. Recent anti-smuggling operations in various parts of Mindanao are being scrutinized for potential patterns, routes, and common actors to establish links to a broader criminal organization.

The operation took place around 1:30 a.m. Thursday in Barangay Lapas, conducted by personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 11, in coordination with the Carmen Municipal Police Station and the Highway Patrol Group unit in Davao del Norte. Eight suspects, allegedly involved in the transport and handling of smuggled cigarettes believed to have originated from Jolo, Sulu, were arrested.

Items seized as evidence include a boat marked 'MJ Nur-Aira,' two red container vans, an Isuzu Traviz van, two Nissan Navara pickup trucks, approximately 900 master cases of assorted cigarettes, and eight smartphones, among others.