Manila: Police in Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) confiscated over PHP119 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during the first three quarters of this year. PRO-10 spokesperson Maj. Joann Navarro reported that operations netted PHP67.6 million in contraband from January to March, representing the highest quarterly haul.

According to Philippines News Agency, seizures totaled PHP36.7 million from April to June, followed by PHP14.7 million in the third quarter. Navarro stated that the police turn over smuggling cases to the Bureau of Customs and coordinate with the Bureau of Internal Revenue regarding potential tax liabilities.

PRO-10 police also intercepted PHP8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte, and arrested a 29-year-old suspect on Nov. 6. Beyond cigarette smuggling, Navarro mentioned that PRO-10 has intensified campaigns against illegal drugs, wanted persons, loose firearms, and illegal mining.