Authorities seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth more than P15 million in Barangay Piraka, Sultan Naga Dimaporo, Lanao del Norte.

Police launched an operation after an informant tipped them about the presence of alleged smuggled cigarettes in the area.

The operating team discovered a large stash of assorted cigarettes at an uninhabited house when the window was slightly opened.

Seized from the house were nearly 400 boxes of cigarettes worth around P15.2 million. These items were turned over to the Bureau of Customs.

Authorities identified the owner of the cigarettes as alias “Al,” a resident of Zamboanga del Sur. Two other persons of interest were also identified.

“This operation underscores the unwavering commitment of PRO10 in combating illicit trade across the region. We will continue to intensify our intelligence-driven operations and work closely with other agencies and the community to ensure that those involved in these illegal activities are held accountable,” Police Regional Offce-Northern Mindanao (PRO-10) Director, Brigadier General Jaysen De Guzman, said.