DAVAO CITY, July 30 -- Authorities seized PHP3 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a joint operation in Carmen, Davao del Norte on Thursday, according to the Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao (CGDSEM).

In a statement, CGDSEM said its Coast Guard Sub-Station (CGSS) Carmen launched the operation with partner law enforcement agencies following information from the Coast Guard Intelligence Group Southeastern Mindanao on the transport of illicit cigarettes.

Around 5:30 a.m., personnel from the Carmen Police Office reported finding an abandoned vehicle near the town proper, loaded with illegal cigarettes.

Initial report indicated that the suspects abandoned the vehicle and fled, leaving the cargo near the Tala River.

"In re...