ZAMBOANGA CITY, November 8, 2025 — In a decisive maritime security operation, law enforcement agencies intercepted a motorized vessel loaded with alleged smuggled cigarettes off the waters of Manalipa Island, Zamboanga City at around 10:18 PM on November 7.
The operation was conducted by a coordinated task force comprising the Regional Intelligence Division, Regional Special Operations Group 9, Zamboanga City Maritime Police Station, Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, City Intelligence Unit, Zamboanga City Police Station 4, Regional Maritime Unit 9, and the 904th Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9. This joint effort forms part of ongoing maritime security and anti-smuggling initiatives aimed at safeguarding coastal borders and preventing the illegal entry of goods.
Authorities reported that during a seaborne patrol, radar monitoring detected a suspicious motorized boat, prompting an immediate interception. Upon inspection, the vessel was found carrying a large shipment of cigarettes, with seven male crew members — all residents of Sultan Kudarat — unable to present proper documentation for the cargo.
An inventory revealed 226 master cases of assorted cigarette brands, including 53 New Berlin, 100 Platinum Seven, 8 Seven Kings, 10 Gajah Baru, 1 Ford, 15 Casa Blanca, and 39 Cannon Menthol, with an estimated market value of ₱15,820,000. Additionally, authorities recovered two units of US Garand Rifles Cal. 30 M1 Springfield Armory, which have been turned over to the Zamboanga City Crime Laboratory for ballistic examination.
The seized cigarettes and the motorized boat are now under the custody of the Regional Special Operations Unit 9, while the seven crew members remain detained at ZCPS 4 pending inquest proceedings.
Police Brigadier General Eleazar P. Matta, Regional Director of PRO 9, lauded the joint operation and underscored the continued commitment to law enforcement. “This operation sends a clear message: our waters and borders are not safe havens for illegal activity. The seizure of smuggled cigarettes, an act of economic sabotage, along with the recovery of illegal firearms, underscores our unyielding resolve to dismantle criminal networks that threaten public safety and economic stability. We will remain steadfast and vigilant, ensuring that law enforcement presence is felt across all entry points,” PBGen Matta said.
The Police Regional Office 9 also urged coastal communities and the public to report any suspicious maritime activity, reinforcing the collective effort to curb smuggling and other illegal trade activities.