MANILA — The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered a deeper investigation into possible inter-regional smuggling networks operating across Mindanao following the seizure of PHP22.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Carmen, Davao del Norte, and the arrest of eight suspects.

Authorities said the latest operation came a day after another PHP13.25 million worth of smuggled cigarettes was confiscated in Picong, Lanao del Sur, prompting investigators to examine possible links between the incidents.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said investigators have been instructed to determine whether the shipments are part of a wider criminal network.

“We have directed our investigators to determine whether this shipment is connected to previous smuggling cases in Mindanao and to identify any syndicates, financiers, or networks operating behind these illegal activities,” Nartatez said in a statement Friday.

He added that authorities are studying possible patterns in recent anti-smuggling operations.

“Given recent anti-smuggling operations in different parts of Mindanao, we are examining possible patterns, routes, and common actors to establish whether these incidents are linked to a broader criminal organization,” he said.

The latest operation was conducted around 1:30 a.m. Thursday in Barangay Lapas by personnel from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 11, in coordination with the Carmen Municipal Police Station and the Highway Patrol Group in Davao del Norte.

Eight suspects were arrested for their alleged involvement in transporting and handling smuggled cigarettes reportedly originating from Jolo, Sulu.

Authorities also seized a boat marked “MJ Nur-Aira,” two red container vans, an Isuzu Traviz van, two Nissan Navara pickup trucks, about 900 master cases of assorted cigarettes, and several smartphones, among other items.