ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities foiled another smuggling attempt in the city’s coastal waters, seizing over ₱2.8 million worth of illicit cigarettes during an operation off Sta. Cruz Island, Barangay Sta. Barbara, on Saturday night, April 13.
The successful interception was carried out by the 2nd City Mobile Force Company “Seaborne” under the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) around 9:30 p.m., following a tip-off on illegal maritime activity.
Police operatives flagged down a green motorboat marked “MARDIYA” during routine patrol. Upon inspection, the vessel was found loaded with 50 master cases and 23 reams of Bravo Red cigarettes, estimated to be worth ₱2,891,358.
The boat’s three crew members were unable to present legal documents for the shipment, prompting their immediate arrest. Authorities also recovered two Samsung keypad cellphones, which are believed to have been used to coordinate the smuggling attempt.
The seized contraband and the motorboat were turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper documentation and disposal, while the suspects remain in the custody of Zamboanga City Police Station 11 for further investigation.
The ZCPO reaffirmed its commitment to intensify efforts against smuggling and protect Zamboanga’s maritime borders from illegal trade.