Authorities have confiscated suspected smuggled cigarettes worth more than P6.4 million in Matanog, Maguindanao del Norte on Tuesday, March 17, 2026.

Police said a mixer truck loaded with around 7,550 reams was intercepted at a checkpoint in Barangay Bayanga.

Police arrested the 30-year-old driver and his 20-year-old helper, who are both residents of Zamboanga City, after they reportedly failed to present any legal transport documents.

The suspects may face charges related to anti-smuggling laws.

According to the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO-BAR), operatives initially noticed irregularities in the vehicle, prompting them to subject it to inspection, which led to the discovery of the alleged contraband.

Investigators are looking into the incident to determine the origin and intended destination of the items, as well as identify those behind the illegal transport.