Cops seize P1.2-M 'hot' cigarettes inside reefer van in Iligan City

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — A refrigerated van failed to keep its illicit cargo cool after local authorities discovered P1.2 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes stashed inside following a spice delivery run on Thursday.

​In a text message to the Inquirer on Friday, spokesperson Maj. Joan Navarro, Police Regional Office 10 (PRO-10), said the operation highlights the value of intelligence-driven policing and strategic checkpoints in disrupting the movement of illicit goods.

READ: Pagadian cops recover P6.9-M worth of ‘smuggled’ cigarettes

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​”It also reflects the strong coordination between PRO-10, the Bureau of Customs, and our partner agencies in protecting legitimate trade,” Navarro added.

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​Operating units flagged down the white van at 1:50 p.m. after it passed a the checkpoint of Task Force Iligan along the national highway in Sitio Mapalad, Barangay Dalipuga.

​According to the police report, a plain-view inspection yielded 1,500 reams of “Pragon” brand cigarettes.

​Authorities identified the driver as alias “Rolly,” 37, of Midsalip, Zamboanga del Sur, and his passenger as alias “Larry,” 33, of Baroy, Lanao del Norte.

​Investigation revealed that the truck had traveled to Pagadian City earlier in the day to deliver spice products. After completing the drop-off, the vehicle allegedly picked up the smuggled cigarettes for transport. Police are tracking the origin and intended destination of the contraband.

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​The suspects were unable to present importation documents, tax stamps, or Bureau of Customs clearances, prompting the immediate confiscation of the cargo for violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and the National Internal Revenue Code.

​In a statement, Brig. Gen. Christopher Abrahano, PRO-10 director, said they will continue holding smugglers accountable.

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​”PRO-10 remains resolute in curbing smuggling across Northern Mindanao,” Abrahano said.

​The confiscated cigarettes, the Isuzu van, and the two suspects will be turned over to the BOC for proper documentation and disposition./coa

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