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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Cops seize P20 M worth of smuggled cigarettes in Maguindanao del Norte

Cops seize P20 M worth of smuggled cigarettes in Maguindanao del Norte

Published Mar 21, 2026 02:49 pm
Police seize around P20 million worth of cigarettes suspected to have been smuggled into the country after intercepting a delivery van in a checkpoint in Parang, Maguindanao del Norte on Friday, March 20.
Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez, Jr., chief of the Philippine National Police, said the interception of the large shipment of smuggled cigarettes was part of the intensified operations against smuggling activities.
He said joint operatives from the Regional Mobile Force Battalion 14-A and Parang Municipal Police Station flagged down a wing van truck in Barangay Pinantao in Parang town at around 6:30 a.,.
Seized were 345 master cases of assorted cigarette brands believed to be smuggled, with an estimated market value of ₱20 million. The driver was eventually arrested after failing to present proper documents of the cigarettes.
Nartatez said the confiscated goods, along with the vehicle and the driver, are now under police custody.
Nartatez commended the operating units for the successful operation, saying it was a result of the local police’s their vigilance and coordination.
“Let this be a clear message to those attempting to bypass our laws: the PNP is always alert, ready, and committed to protecting our people and our economy,” he said.
“The PNP also assures the public that operations against smuggling and other forms of criminality will remain relentless,” he added.
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