MANILA, Philippines — Smuggled cigarettes worth an estimated P14 million were seized along the shoreline of Barangay Campo Islam, Zamboanga City, early Tuesday morning, September 22, the Philippine National Police said.
The operation conducted at around 4:30 AM followed information received by the Regional Special Operations Unit 9 regarding suspected smuggled cigarettes abandoned along the STANVAC shoreline. Local authorities proceeded to the area and verified the report.
The operation led to the recovery of 94 master cases and 36 reams of branded cigarettes, along with a motorboat believed to be associated with the recovered items. The estimated market value of the cigarettes is P14 million.
Despite efforts to locate the owner or any person claiming ownership, no individual was identified at the scene. The recovered items were brought to the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company-Seaborne headquarters for documentation, inventory, and further investigation. The cigarettes are set to be turned over to the Bureau of Customs, Port of Zamboanga, for proper disposition.
“This recovery shows why timely information and close coordination matter. Kapag may impormasyong natatanggap, we act promptly, verify the facts, and ensure that recovered items are properly accounted for. We will continue working with our partner agencies to help prevent illegal trade and protect our communities, Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said. In a statement.