ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities from the Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) intercepted a motorized banca carrying smuggled cigarettes worth around P23 million off the coast of Panamao, Sulu, resulting in the arrest of five crew members on September 24.
Naval personnel aboard BRP Herminigildo Yurong (PG906) intercepted the vessel identified as MFB Ghazi, reportedly owned by Alparabi I. Jirilani. The banca was crewed by individuals from Olutanga, Zamboanga Sibugay, and Isabela City, Basilan.
An inspection revealed approximately 160 master cases of undocumented foreign-brand cigarettes believed to have been loaded in Jolo, Sulu and bound for Ipil, Zamboanga Sibugay.
The seized items and the apprehended crew were escorted to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon in Bagong Calarian, Zamboanga City for inventory, documentation, and subsequent turnover to the Bureau of Customs for investigation and proper disposition.
RADM Constancio Arturo Reyes Jr., commander of WMNC, commended the vigilance of his personnel, stressing that the successful operation underscores the Navy’s resolve in curbing smuggling, piracy, and other illicit activities within Western Mindanao’s maritime domain.
“This operation reflects our unwavering commitment to support the government’s campaign against illegal trade and safeguard national sovereignty,” Reyes said.
The interception marks yet another blow to smuggling operations in Sulu waters, a known transit route for contraband goods entering Western Mindanao.