Authorities arrested eight men and confiscated alleged smuggled cigarettes worth around P22.5 million in Barangay Lapas, Carmen, Davao del Norte on Thursday, June 4, 2026.

According to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), the suspects were caught transporting master cases of alleged smuggled cigarettes from Sulu.

The suspects were identified as residents of Jolo, Sulu and Davao City.

Seized during the operation were 900 master cases of assorted cigarettes, the motorized boat used by the suspects, two container vans, a pickup truck, and cellphones.

CIDG said the suspects reportedly failed to present documents authorizing them to possess, transport, distribute, and trade the cigarettes.

“The smuggling of illegal cigarettes into the Philippines inflicts severe damage on the country's economy, public health systems, and national security. Smuggled cigarettes are illegal, primarily because bringing them across borders bypasses mandatory customs duties and excise (sin) taxes,” CIDG said.

CIDG commended its operatives for the interception of the alleged smuggled items and the arrest of the suspects.

“The operation underscores the CIDG’s unyielding fight against smuggling and economic sabotage nationwide. The CIDG assures the public that the Group is steadfast in implementing all the laws, and unrelenting against all criminal networks that deal with smuggled cigarettes and illegal cigarette manufacturing facilities across the country,” CIDG added.