Authorities nab Police, Coast Guard officer in smuggled cigarette escort

GENERAL SANTOS CITY – A police officer and a Coast Guard personnel were arrested following a high-speed chase between the Sarangani PNP and the occupants of a van and a black Toyota Fortuner loaded with smuggled cigarettes in Barangay Sinawal, General Santos City, earlier today.

According to a report from the Sarangani PNP, the van, which originated from Maasim, Sarangani, avoided a checkpoint manned by the 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (PMFC) Sarangani, nearly hitting police personnel stationed there.

A chase ensued, and upon reaching Corner Litan, Diversion Road, General Santos City, the van and a black Fortuner crashed.

Upon investigation, authorities discovered multiple boxes of smuggled cigarettes inside both vehicles.

The driver of the Fortuner was identified as PSSg Rex Jalandoni, a police officer assigned to the Highway Patrol Group (HPG) South Cotabato.

Gerant Gervacuo, a member of the Philippine Coast Guard, Kenneth Tabion, and Meljy Antugon were also arrested.

The suspects are now in the custody of the Sarangani PNP, while further investigation is underway to determine the full extent of their involvement in the smuggling operation.