Authorities seized alleged smuggled comforters and cigarettes after a closed van carrying the items figured in an accident in General Santos City.

According to the Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) of the General Santos City Police Office (GSCPO), the van was reportedly coming from Sinawal to Barangay Uhaw when the driver allegedly lost control, causing the van to crash.

The van was damaged severely after it overturned on the road in Barangay Apopong.

“Gikan siya sa roundball sa Sinawal to Brgy. Uhaw. Pagdating doon nagkaroon siya ng loss control ang driver na nagresulta ng aksidente. Ang nangyari ang kanyang sasakyan ay total wrecked,” TEU Chief, Lt. Col. Patrich Elma, said.

After the incident, the vehicle’s cargo, found to be smuggled goods, scattered on the road.

Authorities discovered 19 bundles of ukay-ukay comforters worth around P57,000 covered by a total of 674 reams of smuggled cigarettes worth more than P500,000.

However, the driver who was believed to have sustained injuries was nowhere to be found when police arrived.

Investigators added that the driver may have escaped or been rescued by his companions.

Police also confirmed that the driver was not admitted to any hospital in the city.

The vehicle is reportedly owned by a resident of Davao City, based on documents recovered from the van.

Investigation into the incident continues.