CIGARETTE CONTRABAND. Smuggled cigarettes were seized in the docks of Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, on Friday (June 26, 2026). The Police Regional Office-Northern Mindanao (PRIO-10) reported that from June 20 to 26, police operatives confiscated PHP8.6 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in the region. (Photo courtesy of PRO-10)
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The Police Regional Office (PRO) 10 (Northern Mindanao) confiscated more than Php 8.6 million in contraband from June 20 to 26, according to an official.
The most recent operation took place before dawn on Friday when operatives intercepted an estimated Php 4.04 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes and arrested six individuals.
This was conducted during a shoreline patrol operation along the coast of P-3, Bangaan, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, at around 2 a.m.
In a statement, PRO-10 Director Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano stated that both the highway checkpoints in the region and maritime security measures were heightened.
“This successful shoreline interdiction demonstrates PRO-10’s unwavering commitment to protecting our coastal borders from illegal smuggling activities,” he said.
During previous operations over the week, joint PRO-10 units also seized smuggled cigarettes in Ozamiz City, Misamis Occidental on June 25 valued at Php 800,000.
On June 23, another shipment of contraband was intercepted in Iligan City, amounting to PHP1.2 million, and in Kalilangan, Bukidnon worth Php 240,000.
On June 20 and 21, a joint operation yielded Php 2.04 million in Linamon, Lanao del Norte, and Tangub City, Misamis Occidental. (PNA)