ZAMBOANGA CITY – The calm waters off Sta. Cruz Island turned into the scene of swift and decisive law enforcement action as the Philippine National Police (PNP), under the leadership of Acting Chief PLTGEN Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., intercepted a major cigarette smuggling attempt on Tuesday afternoon, November 12, 2025.
The maritime patrol operation, launched around 4:30 p.m., resulted in the seizure of an estimated ₱21 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of seven suspects aboard two motorized boats locally known as “Jungkung.”
Upon inspection, police operatives discovered the vessels were loaded with 300 master cases of illicit cigarettes — 272 cases of Modern Red and 28 cases of Green Hills Menthol — believed to have been smuggled from nearby foreign waters. The contraband and the apprehended individuals were brought to Zamboanga City Police Station 11 for documentation and proper disposition.
In a statement, PLTGEN Nartatez lauded the coordinated efforts of the operating units, describing the operation as a reflection of the PNP’s firm stance against smuggling and economic sabotage.
“This successful operation is a clear proof of the discipline, alertness, and teamwork of our PNP personnel. Their collective effort prevented the illegal transport of millions worth of smuggled goods—protecting our communities and upholding the integrity of our borders,” he said.
The police chief emphasized that the operation aligns with the PNP’s Focused Agenda — the organization’s roadmap toward institutional transformation and operational excellence — particularly under the Enhanced Managing Police Operations (EMPO) framework that aims to strengthen coordination, accountability, and rapid response in the field.
Meanwhile, PNP Spokesperson PBGEN Randulf T. Tuaño underscored that the accomplishment demonstrates the unity and dedication of PNP personnel in combating criminality on all fronts.
“Every successful operation is not just about arrests or confiscations, but a promise to our people that the PNP is working tirelessly to protect them and uphold peace in our communities,” PBGEN Tuaño said.
Authorities have turned over the seized items to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) for proper handling, while investigations continue to trace the source and network behind the smuggling attempt.
The PNP assured the public that maritime patrols in Zamboanga and nearby areas will be further intensified to deter future smuggling activities.
The latest accomplishment reinforces the PNP’s commitment to a “Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong mabilis, tapat, at nararamdaman.”