P15.7M worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in Cotabato

Authorities seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth P15.7 million at a checkpoint in Pigcawayan, Cotabato on Thursday, September 4, 2025.

Police officers flagged down two wing van trucks and found around 400 boxes of cigarettes concealed beneath sacks of charcoal and sand.

The cargo was brought to the headquarters of the Police Regional Office-SOCCSKSARGEN (PRO-12) in General Santos City for inventory by personnel of the Bureau of Customs (BOC-12).

Five people, including two drivers, were arrested in connection with the seizure.

Based on the investigation, the alleged contraband came from Lanao del Sur and was supposed to be delivered to Kabacan, Cotabato.

PRO-12 Director, Brigadier General Arnold Ardiente, stated that the offense is tantamount to economic sabotage or agricultural smuggling, which is a non-bailable offense.

PRO-12 also warned small stores against selling smuggled cigarettes, with Ardiente stating that store owners found with such items will be held accountable.