DAVAO CITY –— Authorities intercepted an elf van carrying smuggled cigarettes valued at over P5.5 million at the Task Force Davao Checkpoint in Purok 1, Barangay Eden, Toril District on the evening of December 23.
The suspects, identified as Arjay, 40, from Purok 29, Ocean View Phase 1-A, Barangay Ilang, Davao City, and his helper Rommel, 34, were arrested after failing to produce documentation for the goods during the routine inspection.
According to the official report, authorities initially spotted open reams of a cigarette brand behind the passenger seat while inspecting the vehicle. Upon further examination, they discovered 140 cartons of cigarettes stored in the back of the van.
The two suspects are set to face charges for violating Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, which prohibits the transport of smuggled goods.
The confiscation highlights ongoing efforts by Task Force Davao and local authorities to curb smuggling activities in the region.
