THE Philippine National Police (PNP) recovered nearly ₱3 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Cotabato City, as authorities continue to intensify efforts against illegal trade and economic sabotage.
Police units conducted a late-night operation along Riverside, Timako, Barangay Kalanganan 2, where an abandoned red Isuzu truck containing boxes of cigarettes believed to be smuggled was discovered.
A total of seventy (70) master cases of cigarettes, reportedly of the “BOSQU” brand, with an estimated value of ₱2,992,500.00, were recovered from the vehicle. No suspects were present at the scene.
The recovered items are now in police custody and will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs following proper inventory and documentation. Authorities are conducting follow-up investigations to identify those responsible and determine possible charges.
PNP Chief, Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., commended the operating units for their prompt response, emphasizing the PNP’s continued commitment to combating smuggling and other forms of illegal economic activity.
“Hindi tayo titigil sa ganitong operasyon. Sa bawat impormasyong natatanggap ng PNP, agad tayong kumikilos upang protektahan ang ating ekonomiya at mamamayan,” PGen Nartatez said.
This development highlights the PNP’s sustained campaign against smuggling networks, aligned with its PNP Focused Agenda and the broader efforts of the government.
The PNP reaffirmed its commitment to the vision of a Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman, as it continues to strengthen law enforcement operations nationwide.
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