Soccsksargen: Police in the Soccsksargen region confiscated PHP24.9 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested 204 individuals in November during intensified campaigns against contraband and illegal drugs. Brig. Gen. Arnold Ardiente, regional police director, announced the results Tuesday, stating 46 people were arrested in 43 anti-smuggling operations.

According to Philippines News Agency, this operation underscores the police commitment to protecting the national economy and legitimate businesses. In separate anti-drug operations, authorities arrested 158 persons and seized suspected shabu with an estimated street value of PHP4.1 million and marijuana worth PHP8,000.

Confiscated smuggled goods were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition. Brig. Gen. Ardiente emphasized that every gram of shabu and marijuana seized represents a life saved and a community protected, urging continued public cooperation to achieve a drug-free region.