Authorities seized P744,900 worth of smuggled cigarettes after recovering an abandoned boat loaded with contraband in Sitio Sicanan, Barangay Latabon, Siocon, Zamboanga del Norte, police confirmed.
According to the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9), operatives of the Siocon Municipal Police Station acted on intelligence information regarding a deserted vessel suspected of transporting illegal goods. A search of the area led to the discovery of 13 master cases of smuggled cigarettes, with a total estimated value of P744,900, based on the standard pricing of the Bureau of Customs.
Authorities said the boat appeared to have been hastily abandoned, indicating that the individuals behind the smuggling operation may have fled upon sensing the presence of law enforcement. No arrests were made during the operation.
The confiscated cigarettes were placed under police custody for proper documentation and coordination with concerned agencies for appropriate disposition and the possible filing of charges against those responsible.
Police reiterated their commitment to intensifying anti-smuggling operations, particularly in coastal areas vulnerable to illegal trade, and urged residents to report any suspicious activities.