What began as a routine traffic stop for an overloading violation turned into a significant smuggling bust after authorities confiscated P180,000 worth of suspected illicit cigarettes from a tricycle driver in San Jose de Buenavista, Antique, on Thursday morning, April 9.

The suspect, identified by police as alias “Edwin,” a 26-year-old resident of Barangay 8, was traversing Nietes Street in Barangay 8 when he was flagged down at approximately 9 a.m.

According to police reports, law enforcement initially stopped Edwin’s Rusi Macho 150 motorcycle with a sidecar due to overloading.

However, during the routine visual inspection, officers noticed several partially exposed boxes inside the vehicle. A closer examination of the cargo revealed 360 reams of suspected illegal cigarettes.

Authorities noted that the confiscated tobacco products lacked the mandatory Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) excise tax stamps.

Furthermore, the packaging failed to comply with the graphic health warning requirements stipulated under Republic Act 10643.

The detained suspect will face charges for violating Republic Act 11346 (Tobacco Tax Law) and Republic Act 8424 (National Internal Revenue Code).

Meanwhile, the confiscated boxes of illicit cigarettes were officially turned over to the Antique Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) for secure handling and proper disposition.

The operation was executed through the coordination of the San Jose Municipal Police Station (MPS), MARPSTA, and the Provincial Highway Patrol Team (PHPT) Antique.

Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan, Police Regional Office (PRO-6) director, commended the quick thinking and coordination of the operating units on the ground.

“As we continue to ramp up our efforts against smuggling and the illegal sale of goods, I commend the operating units for their unwavering dedication in upholding the law. This operation reflects our firm commitment to eradicating illicit activities in Western Visayas,” he said in a statement.

“We remain steadfast in our mission to protect public health and ensure that violators face the full force of the law,” he continued.

The regional director also called on communities to assist law enforcement in their ongoing campaigns against contraband.

“I continuously urge the public to remain vigilant and report any illegal activities to help us achieve a safer region for all,” he said.IMT