The Police Regional Office-SOCCSKSARGEN (PRO-12) has turned over more than P19 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes seized in Palimbang, Sultan Kudarat to the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

PRO-12 said the items were confiscated from a warehouse in Barangay Wal on November 30, 2025.

Operatives launched an operation after receiving information that the warehouse allegedly owned by a certain “Lupin” was storing illegal cigarettes.

The owner was not around during the operation.

Seized during the operation were 495 boxes of alleged smuggled cigarettes worth more than P19.4 million.

PRO-12 turned over the seized items to BOC for proper disposition.

The warehouse owner will face charges for violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (RA 10863) and Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act (RA 12022).

“This turnover demonstrates our shared dedication to protecting the economy and communities from smuggling. PRO 12 will continue to work closely with the Bureau of Customs and other partners to ensure illegal goods are intercepted before reaching the public,” PRO-12 Director, Brigadier General Arnold Ardiente, said.