The Police Regional Office in Negros Island Region (PRO-NIR) confiscated an estimated P715,000 worth of smuggled cigarettes during an operation conducted in Sitio Utod, Barangay Hilamonan, Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental on May 4, 2026.
Arrest and Seizure
The operation led to the arrest of alias Bas, 57, a driver and vendor from Santa Catalina, Zamboanga City. Lieutenant Colonel Joem Malong, PRO-NIR Public Information Office chief, stated that the Kabankalan City Police Station of the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (Nocppo) carried out the operation after receiving a tip from a concerned citizen about suspicious boxes being unloaded, believed to contain illegal cigarettes.
The suspect was caught unloading boxes from a red Isuzu Elf dropside containing cigarette products without the required graphic health warnings, violating Republic Act 10643. Authorities recovered 21 small boxes of Tourism cigarettes (each containing 30 reams), eight big boxes of Tourism cigarettes (each containing 50 reams), 12 big boxes of Bosquo cigarettes (each containing 50 reams), and the vehicle used.
Community Role
Malong emphasized that this successful operation highlights the crucial role of community participation in law enforcement. The timely report from a concerned citizen enabled a swift response and successful apprehension. By intercepting non-compliant cigarettes, authorities not only protect public health but also disrupt illegal distribution networks.
The suspect is currently detained at the Kabankalan City Police Station, while the seized evidence remains in police custody for proper disposition. PRO-NIR reaffirms its commitment to intensifying enforcement efforts and fostering strong community partnerships to ensure unlawful activities are promptly reported and effectively addressed.
