Authorities intercepted a van loaded with alleged smuggled cigarettes worth more than P9.8 million at a checkpoint in Davao City.

The driver allegedly failed to present documents for the cargo and proof that he works for the courier company whose name was reflected on the van.

According to the police, the manager of the courier company said the driver is not working for them and the van does not belong to the company.

The driver then reportedly admitted that the items he was carrying were smuggled.

Authorities confiscated around 251 boxes of cigarettes.

The driver is facing charges for alleged violation of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863).

The items seized were turned over to the Bureau of Customs.