RT LIM, Zamboanga Sibugay — A joint anti-smuggling operation in this town has resulted in the arrest of a male suspect and the confiscation of over ₱3 million worth of smuggled cigarettes, authorities confirmed on Wednesday.
The operation, conducted around 6:15 AM on August 6, was spearheaded by the Provincial Intelligence Unit of the Zamboanga Sibugay Police Provincial Office (ZSPPO), in coordination with the RT Lim Municipal Police Station and the Bureau of Customs. It was carried out at Purok Orchids, Sitio Labuyo, Barangay Gango.
Law enforcers seized a total of 53 master cases of undocumented cigarettes—46 cases of Astro brand and seven cases of D&G brand—amounting to a market value of ₱3,036,900.00, based on standard Bureau of Customs pricing.
The arrested individual, whose identity has not yet been disclosed pending investigation, is currently under the custody of RT Lim Municipal Police Station along with the seized contraband for proper documentation and legal proceedings.
ZSPPO Provincial Director PCOL Barnard Danie V. Dasugo lauded the efforts of the involved units and the local community.
“Our campaign to curb smuggling remains persistent. I commend the units involved in this successful operation and the community for providing valuable information. Let us continue to collaborate and protect our local economy. Our collective responsibility is critical to the maintenance of peace and order in our Province,” said Dasugo in a statement.
Authorities said the crackdown is part of ongoing intensified efforts to suppress the entry and distribution of smuggled goods that negatively affect local businesses and government revenue.
Investigation is ongoing to determine the full extent of the smuggling operation and whether it is linked to a larger network.