ZAMBOANGA CITY – May 2, 2025 — In a major anti-smuggling operation, authorities intercepted a motorboat carrying an estimated ₱36,786,600 worth of smuggled cigarettes at Lig Marine Port in Barangay Campo Islam, Zamboanga City.
The successful interdiction, conducted around 9:30 AM, was led by personnel from Zamboanga City Police Station 11 and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group–Criminal Investigation Unit (CIDG-CIU), in close coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Maritime Group, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and other law enforcement units.
Acting on a tip, authorities swiftly launched a surveillance and interdiction operation that resulted in the apprehension of three male suspects. The suspects were identified as a 54-year-old from Bongao, Tawi-Tawi, and two others—aged 33 and 35—from Panamao, Sulu.
The suspects were caught unloading 642 master cases of contraband cigarettes from a green and white lansta-type motorboat. All confiscated items were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper inventory and documentation, while the suspects are currently under police custody. They will face charges under Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Authorities said the operation underscores the Marcos administration’s intensified crackdown on smuggling and economic sabotage. Under the direction of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. and the leadership of PNP Chief PGen Rommel Francisco D. Marbil, the Philippine National Police continues to strengthen efforts against maritime criminal activities.
PBGEN Roel C. Rodolfo, Regional Director of Police Regional Office 9, commended the joint effort and issued a strong warning to smugglers.
“This successful operation is a clear demonstration of our unwavering commitment to protect our borders and uphold the rule of law. We will never allow Zamboanga Peninsula to become a transit point of any criminal activity. To those who persist in defying the law—we are watching, we are prepared, and we will act,” he said.
The PNP said it will continue to work closely with government agencies and coastal communities to protect the country’s maritime borders and national economic interests.