Cordova Police Seize P130,000 in Smuggled Cigarettes in Major Crackdown
In a significant enforcement action, police in Cordova have dismantled an illegal cigarette operation, confiscating contraband valued at more than P130,000. The raid targeted a retail store that was selling tobacco products without the necessary government permits or tax stamps, underscoring a broader crackdown on illicit trade in the region.
Details of the Raid in Barangay San Miguel
The operation was conducted on the evening of Wednesday, February 11, 2026, in Purok Langub, Barangay San Miguel. Officers from the Cordova Municipal Police Station initiated the raid at approximately 7:30 p.m., acting on credible tips about distributors peddling illegal cigarettes in the area.
During the search, authorities uncovered a substantial cache of smuggled goods, including:
- 48 reams and 11 packs of Fort Cigarettes
- 16 reams of King Pen Cigarettes
The total estimated value of the seized items is P130,200, highlighting the scale of the illegal activity.
Origin of the Contraband and Suspect Statement
The illicit cigarettes were discovered at a retail store owned by a resident identified only as "Francis." When interrogated by police, Francis revealed that a distributor from nearby Lapu-Lapu City supplied the cigarettes, which were delivered to the store via motorcycle.
Francis admitted to purchasing the smuggled goods because they were significantly cheaper than legitimate, branded cigarettes available on the market. This admission points to the economic incentives driving illegal sales and the challenges faced by lawful businesses.
Ongoing Investigation and Official Response
The seized cigarettes have been transported to the Cordova Police Station as evidence. Investigators are now intensifying efforts to trace and dismantle the larger network responsible for smuggling these products into Cebu.
Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr., director of the Cebu Police Provincial Office, issued a stern warning that such operations will persist. "These illegal activities deprive the government of rightful revenues and harm legitimate businesses. We will relentlessly pursue those involved and ensure that appropriate charges are filed," Mangelen stated.
Public Cooperation in Combating Illegal Trade
This bust is part of a comprehensive initiative to safeguard local businesses that comply with regulations and pay their taxes. Mangelen is encouraging residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious sales or smuggled goods to authorities. Public assistance is crucial in maintaining a safe and equitable community, free from the distortions caused by contraband trade.
