A police officer along with three others were arrested by the PNP-HPG after being caught in Iligan City last Friday while carrying smuggled cigarettes.
Operatives flagged down a black pickup truck but the suspects sped away. A chase ensued until the vehicle was stopped. Upon inspection, several boxes of smuggled cigarettes were found. Police also recovered a 9mm pistol and two magazines with 30 bullets.
One of those arrested is a police staff sergeant assigned to Lanao del Norte. Investigations are ongoing to determine whether he is the leader of the group. Also with them was a 14-year-old minor who was immediately handed over to the Women and Children Protection Desk for due process.
According to the PNP-HPG, the case is more serious when the value of the smuggled goods exceeds ₱10,000,000. This can result in a non-bailable case.
The suspects will be charged with illegal possession of firearms, resistance and disobedience to authority, and violation of customs and anti-smuggling laws.
