Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay – May 1, 2025 — A joint maritime law enforcement operation in the early hours of Thursday led to the arrest of two suspects and the confiscation of an estimated Php11.4 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes off the waters of Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay.
The operation, conducted at around 4:30 a.m., was carried out by personnel of the Zamboanga Sibugay Maritime Police Station (ZS MARPSTA), in coordination with the RMU9 Task Force Plutus, Provincial Intelligence Unit-ZSBPPO, Ipil Municipal Police Station, 5th Special Operations Unit, and the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Zamboanga Sibugay.
Authorities identified the suspects as adult male residents of Maluso, Basilan. They were aboard an unmarked green motorized banca covered with a black canvas. According to police reports, the suspects attempted to flee when flagged down, triggering a sea chase that lasted for about an hour.
Upon interception and inspection, law enforcers discovered 200 master cases of Kingpen cigarettes hidden on board. The suspects failed to present documents to prove the legality of the cargo and the vessel, leading to their immediate arrest.
Seized during the operation were:
- 200 master cases of Kingpen cigarettes, valued at Php11,460,000
- One unmarked green motorized banca with outrigger, valued at Php150,000
The suspects and confiscated items were brought to ZS MARPSTA for documentation and further legal processing. They are expected to face charges for violations of Republic Act No. 10643 (Graphic Health Warnings Law) and Republic Act No. 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).
Authorities reaffirmed their commitment to intensify operations against smuggling and other maritime crimes in the region.