Policeman Nabbed in Major Smuggling Operation
Authorities in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region have made a significant bust, apprehending two individuals, including an active-duty policeman, and confiscating smuggled cigarettes valued at approximately P2.5 million. The operation was conducted by the Police Regional Office–Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR).
Details of the Early Morning Arrest
The arrests occurred in the early hours of Thursday, November 27, 2025, in Jose Abad Santos village, Malabang, Lanao del Sur. According to Police Brigadier General Jaysen De Guzman, the PRO-BAR director, the suspects were intercepted at a police checkpoint around 4 a.m.
Upon inspection, lawmen discovered about 50 master cases of undocumented cigarettes inside the suspects' vehicle. Reports from the area identified the arrested individuals as a 40-year-old police staff sergeant assigned in Malabang and a 42-year-old local resident. The contraband was reportedly intended for delivery in Marawi City.
Condemnation and Commitment to Integrity
General De Guzman strongly condemned the involvement of the police officer in the illegal activity. He emphasized that such actions severely undermine the integrity of the Philippine National Police and erode public trust.
He further stressed that this arrest is a clear demonstration of PRO-BAR's commitment to internal cleansing, transparency, and accountability. The force is determined to identify and remove any personnel who tarnish the service and compromise the safety of the public.
