P4.6 million smuggled cigarettes seized in Digos City

(Graphics from PRO-11)

DAVAO CITY, Philippines — The Police Regional Office (PRO) 11 (Davao Region) announced that its Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) intercepted 308 master cases of suspected smuggled cigarettes worth an estimated P4.6 million in two separate operations in Digos City, Davao del Sur on Oct. 29 and 30.

On Oct. 30, RSOG-11 officers seized 267 cases of suspected smuggled cigarettes found piled along the roadside in Barangay Tres de Mayo.

The operation was prompted by a tip from an informant, leading officers to the area, where they coordinated with the Digos City Police Station for proper documentation.

“This demonstrates PRO-11’s commitment to support government efforts to protect revenue by ensuring fair and transparent customs enforcement,” said Brig. Gen. Leon Victor Rosete, PRO-11 acting director on Friday.

A separate incident on Oct. 29 involved RSOG-11 personnel conducting anti-criminality patrols when they observed two individuals unloading cases of cigarettes.

When approached, the suspects fled in a minivan, sparking a pursuit that led to the confiscation of 41 more master cases valued at P600,000.

All seized items have been temporarily held at the Digos City Police Station and will be transferred to the Bureau of Customs for appropriate handling and disposal.