Authorities seized more than P2 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes in Sta. Cruz, Davao del Sur on Sunday, December 5, 2025.

According to the Police Regional Office-Davao (PRO-11), police were serving an arrest warrant against a man wanted for alleged statutory rape when they noticed another man arranging master cases of suspected smuggled cigarettes worth around P2.2 million by the road.

During inspection, the man allegedly failed to provide legal documents. He was then taken under police custody.

He may face charges for alleged violations of The Graphic Health Warnings Law (RA 10643) and The Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act (RA 12022).

The items confiscated were brought to the Regional Special Operations Group (RSOG) for custody.

“Their dedication and proactive response not only resulted in the successful arrest of a wanted individual but also dealt a significant blow to the illicit cigarette trade in the region,” PRO-11 Director, Brigadier General Leon Victor Rosete, said.