Major Smuggling Bust in Lanao del Norte
Law enforcement officials in Lanao del Norte have successfully intercepted a significant shipment of smuggled cigarettes with an estimated value of P840,000. The operation, which took place on Thursday, November 20, also led to the arrest of a key individual involved in the illegal trade.
Operation Details and Arrest
According to Police Colonel Leo De Leon Sua, the provincial police director, the contraband was discovered around 8:30 p.m. in Koreo village, Sultan Naga Dimaporo. The successful raid was initiated after police received a credible tip-off about smuggled cigarettes being hidden near the seashore. The information indicated that the goods were offloaded by small boats arriving from nearby provinces.
Upon reaching the location, however, the operatives found that the boats and several other individuals had already fled, managing to evade capture. A 32-year-old resident of the village, identified as the shipper, was not as fortunate and was taken into custody.
Seized Items and Official Statement
The authorities seized a total of 21 master cases containing various brands of illicit cigarettes. Colonel Sua emphasized the importance of this operation, stating, "This operation reflects our firm commitment to curbing smuggling activities that undermine the law and harm our local economy."
The arrested suspect is currently detained at the Sultan Naga Dimaporo Municipal Police Station. The confiscated cigarettes are set to be handed over to the Bureau of Customs–Iligan City for proper disposition and further investigation.
