In a series of anti-smuggling operations in Zamboanga Sibugay, authorities arrested three individuals and confiscated P657,804 worth of illicit cigarettes, according to a report from the Police Regional Office-Zamboanga Peninsula (PRO-Zamboanga). Police Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding confirmed the arrests and the seizure of contraband during the coordinated operations.
Among those apprehended were a 46-year-old truck driver, a 51-year-old assistant, and a 33-year-old tricycle driver. The first two suspects were detained following a checkpoint operation on the night of Wednesday, October 2, in Purok 5, Guintolan village, Imelda. Acting on a tip regarding an incoming shipment, authorities intercepted the suspects and discovered eight master cases of assorted smuggled cigarettes valued at P458,400. The confiscated items were taken to the Imelda Municipal Police Station for documentation.
In a separate incident, the tricycle driver was arrested on Tuesday, October 1, during a similar checkpoint operation in Purok 19, Poblacion Village, Buug. Police found three master cases and 24 reams of smuggled cigarettes valued at P199,404 in the tricycle. Both the suspect and the seized contraband were transferred to the custody of the Buug Municipal Police Station for further investigation.
These operations highlight the ongoing efforts of the PRO-Zamboanga Peninsula to curb smuggling in the region. Brigadier General Masauding emphasized the importance of community involvement in reporting suspicious activities that may contribute to the illegal trade.
