Zamboanga City authorities, in a joint operation between the Zamboanga City Police Station 6 (ZCPS6) and the Bureau of Customs, successfully intercepted a major shipment of smuggled cigarettes early this morning. The intelligence-driven operation took place at Omar Drive, Logoy Medio, Barangay Talon-Talon.
Two container vans carrying one hundred (100) master cases of cigarettes were seized during the operation. The shipment included eighty-two (82) master cases of Modern Red cigarettes and eighteen (18) master cases of Bravo Red cigarettes, with a total estimated market value of Php 5,730,000.00.
The individuals operating the vehicles abandoned the goods and fled upon noticing the presence of law enforcement officers. Despite their escape, the authorities secured the vehicles and the smuggled cigarettes, which were promptly turned over to the Bureau of Customs for custody and documentation.
Efforts are now underway to identify and apprehend those responsible for the smuggling attempt. Investigators are examining the vehicles’ registration and other evidence to trace the shipment’s origins and its intended recipients.
This operation is being hailed as a significant achievement in the ongoing battle against smuggling and illicit trade in the region. The ZCPS6 and the Bureau of Customs have reaffirmed their commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling initiatives to uphold the rule of law and protect the local economy.
Authorities encourage the public to report any information about smuggling activities to help strengthen enforcement efforts and ensure that those engaged in illegal trade are held accountable.