Authorities seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth more than P5.3 million in Barangay Apopong, General Santos City.

Members of the PNP Highway Patrol Group-SOCCSKSARGEN (HPG-12) flagged down a wing van truck for obstruction of traffic during an anti-carnapping operation.

When they opened the truck, police found around 137 boxes of alleged smuggled cigarettes.

The 40-year-old driver was arrested after he failed to present documents for the cargo.

“In the presence of our law enforcers, mobile siya then ni-park siya didto sa mga apiki nga lugar kung diin naka-obstruct siya. Gilayon nga gisita, gi-kompronta gitan-aw ang iyahang mga dokumento og siya ni tug-an nga ang iyang karga is a contraband,” HPG-12 Chief, Col. Benito Recopuerto, said.

HPG-12 said that the alleged contraband was bound for General Santos City from Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat, according to the driver.

The driver claimed he was only asked to deliver the cargo.

It was also found that the driver had a previous case related to cigarette smuggling in Surallah, Cotabato but he was able to post bail.

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

The driver refused to comment.

HPG-12 said it will continue its operations even on election day on May 12, 2025.

“Kaming tanang police mag-render mi og election duty without prejudice to our primary duty. Naa gihapon ta diha magpahigayon ta diha. Heightened alert kita karon,” Recopuerto said.