Upon inspection, police discovered 27 master cases of untaxed cigarettes — including 22 cases of the New Far Red brand — stacked inside the cabin. Authorities said the vehicle contained no medical equipment or supplies.
Police arrested the 31-year-old driver and a 19-year-old passenger, both residents of Sultan Naga Dimaporo, and detained them at the Kapatagan Municipal Police Station.
“We will not let up on our anti-smuggling and anti-illegal trade campaign,” said Police Regional Office 10 director Brig. Gen. Nestor C. Babagay Jr. “We call on the public to report suspicious movements immediately —your vigilance is our strongest defense.”
The seized vehicle and contraband remain in police custody pending turnover to the Bureau of Customs for proper inventory and the filing of criminal charges related to illegal trade and tax evasion.