Police seized nearly P4 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes following a routine checkpoint inspection in Maguindanao del Norte on Tuesday, authorities said.

Philippine National Police (PNP) acting chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. reported Wednesday that officers intercepted a white Isuzu wing van at approximately 11:30 a.m. in Barangay Pinantao.

During a search of the vehicle, joint police and Bureau of Customs personnel discovered 4,582 reams of branded cigarettes hidden within the truck’s walls and floor compartments. Police estimated the market value of the contraband at P3.92 million.

Authorities arrested two Filipino men, ages 42 and 48, after they failed to provide legal documentation for the cargo.

“This operation shows that when we stay focused on intelligence and field presence, we can disrupt criminal activities that harm our economy and our people,” Nartatez said in a statement.

He added that smuggling deprives the government of revenue and fuels further illegal activity.

The inventory of the seized goods was conducted in the presence of local village officials and legal representatives, with Bureau of Customs officials joining via video conference.

The suspects remain in custody and face charges for violating the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. The confiscated cigarettes and the vehicle were turned over to the Parang Municipal Police Station pending further legal proceedings.