MANILA, June 4 -- The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched an investigation to identify and arrest the financiers and syndicate behind the PHP13.25 million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in Picong, Lanao del Sur.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. directed the Police Regional Office-Bangsamoro Autonomous Region (PRO BAR) to coordinate closely with the National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) and other partner agencies to trace the source of the contraband and determine accountability.

"I have already directed the RD (regional director), PRO BAR to work closely with the NBI and local barangay leaders to aggressively unmask the financiers, logistics networks, and local protectors behind this shipment," Nartatez said in...