ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities intercepted a shipment of alleged smuggled cigarettes worth more than ₱2.06 million during a late-night law enforcement operation in Barangay Sta. Catalina, Zamboanga City, leading to the arrest of a 27-year-old driver.
The operation was conducted at approximately 10:15 p.m. on July 28, 2026, by operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Zamboanga City Field Unit, in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Regional Office IX and Police Station 11 of the Zamboanga City Police Office.
Authorities said the operation was carried out for alleged violations of Republic Act No. 10863, also known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
During the operation, law enforcement personnel intercepted a minivan transporting 11 master cases and 140 reams of alleged smuggled cigarettes with an estimated value of ₱2,066,165.80.
The vehicle’s driver, a 27-year-old male resident of Barangay Arena Blanco, Zamboanga City, was arrested after authorities allegedly found him in possession and control of the tobacco products without the required importation and customs documents issued by the Bureau of Customs.
According to a report submitted to Robert AA Morico II, Director of the CIDG, the suspect failed to present the necessary documents proving the legal importation of the cigarettes, making the transport and possession of the shipment unlawful under existing customs regulations.
The confiscated cigarettes and the arrested suspect were taken into police custody for documentation and the filing of appropriate criminal charges under the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
Government Intensifies Campaign Against Smuggling
Morico stressed that the implementation of Republic Act No. 10863 reflects the government’s commitment to modernizing customs administration while strengthening efforts to curb smuggling and customs fraud.
He emphasized that the law aims to improve revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade, and uphold transparency, efficiency, and integrity within the country’s customs system.
The CIDG also underscored the broader impact of cigarette smuggling on the country’s economy.
According to the agency, smuggled tobacco products bypass the Bureau of Customs, depriving the government of import duties and the mandatory 12% Value Added Tax (VAT) that should otherwise contribute to public revenues.
Beyond economic losses, authorities warned that the illegal cigarette trade fuels organized criminal networks that are often linked to corruption, bribery, and maritime border violations, posing significant threats to national security and law enforcement.
CIDG Commends Joint Operation
The CIDG leadership commended Rafael D. Lero, Regional Chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 9, along with the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit led by Aurelio S. Domingo, for their vigilance and successful coordination with the Bureau of Customs Regional Office IX and Police Station 11 of the Zamboanga City Police Office.
Officials said the collaborative effort resulted in the successful interception and confiscation of the alleged contraband before it could be distributed in the local market.
The CIDG reiterated its commitment to aggressively enforcing customs and tariff laws in support of the national government’s intensified campaign against cigarette smuggling and other forms of economic sabotage, assuring the public that operations targeting illegal trade will continue across the country.