Cordova Police Seize P130,200 in Smuggled Cigarettes During Nighttime Raid
In a targeted enforcement action, the Cordova Municipal Police Station seized an estimated P130,200 worth of smuggled cigarettes during an operation conducted on Wednesday night, February 11, 2026. The raid took place in Barangay San Miguel, specifically in Purok Langub, Cordova, following verified reports of illicit distribution activities.
Details of the Seizure and Suspect Interrogation
Authorities recovered a substantial quantity of contraband tobacco products from a retail store owned by a resident identified only as "Francis." The confiscated items included 48 reams and 11 packs of Fort Cigarettes, along with 16 reams of King Pen Cigarettes. According to police, these products lacked essential government permits, tax stamps, and proper regulatory labeling, indicating clear violations of trade and tax laws.
During questioning, the suspect admitted to purchasing the smuggled cigarettes due to their significantly lower price compared to legally available branded alternatives in the market. He revealed that the items were supplied by a distributor based in Lapu-Lapu City and delivered via motorcycle, highlighting a potential cross-city smuggling network.
Police Response and Broader Investigation
The seized cigarettes were transported to the Cordova Police Station for thorough documentation and evidence processing. Investigators are now focusing on identifying the larger network involved in cigarette smuggling across Cebu, aiming to dismantle the supply chain and hold all perpetrators accountable.
Colonel Abubakar Mangelen Jr., director of the Cebu Police Provincial Office, emphasized the seriousness of the crackdown on unauthorized tobacco sales. He stated, "These illegal activities deprive the government of rightful revenues and harm legitimate businesses. We will relentlessly pursue those involved and ensure that appropriate charges are filed." Mangelen also called on residents to remain vigilant and report any sightings of smuggled goods to authorities, underscoring the community's role in combating such crimes.
Implications for Revenue and Business Integrity
This operation underscores ongoing efforts to address tax evasion and unfair competition in the tobacco industry. Smuggled cigarettes not only result in significant revenue losses for the government but also undermine legal businesses that comply with regulatory standards. The police's proactive measures aim to protect economic interests and enforce compliance with national laws.
