ZAMBOANGA CITY — In a major blow to the illegal tobacco trade, operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 9 (CIDG RFU 9) intercepted a vehicle loaded with undocumented imported cigarettes, leading to the seizure of more than ₱2 million worth of contraband in Barangay Kasanyangan on the night of February 15, 2026.
Authorities said the operation was carried out at around 9:16 p.m. when law enforcers stopped a white utility van in the coastal area of Zamboanga City. Upon inspection, the vehicle was found to be carrying 36 master cases of imported Cannon Menthol cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱2,062,800.
The cigarettes were allegedly smuggled into the country without proper documentation and payment of taxes and duties. The driver of the vehicle reportedly abandoned the unit upon interception and fled the scene, prompting authorities to launch a manhunt.
Coordinated Law Enforcement Effort
The successful operation was spearheaded by the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit under RFU 9, in close coordination with ZCPS12 (Talon-Talon Police Station) and the Bureau of Customs, highlighting strong inter-agency cooperation in combating smuggling activities.
The seizure forms part of the nationwide anti-smuggling campaign ordered by **Philippine National Police Chief Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. and CIDG Director Robert Alexander A. Morico II, aimed at dismantling organized syndicates involved in illegal trade.
Protecting Public Health and State Revenue
CIDG officials stressed that the confiscation goes beyond the recovery of illegal goods, describing it as a significant victory for public welfare and national interest.
“This operation protects communities from unregulated and potentially harmful tobacco products, secures government revenues lost to tax evasion, and prevents criminal groups from profiting at the expense of the Filipino people,” the CIDG said in a statement.
Smuggled cigarettes are often sold at lower prices, undermining legitimate businesses and depriving the government of millions in excise taxes used to fund health, education, and social services.
Relentless Campaign Against Smuggling
Authorities revealed that the intercepted van, believed to be a newly acquired unit, was being used as part of a distribution network for illicit tobacco products in the region. Investigators are now working to identify the individuals and groups behind the shipment.
The seized cigarettes and vehicle have been turned over for proper documentation and will be used as evidence in the filing of criminal charges for violations of customs and tax laws.
Call for Public Cooperation
The CIDG reaffirmed its commitment to intensifying operations against smugglers and illegal traders, warning that violators will be relentlessly pursued and prosecuted.
Law enforcement agencies also urged the public to remain vigilant and report the presence of smuggled tobacco products in their communities.
“Together with our partners and the Filipino people, we will continue to uphold the rule of law, safeguard our communities, and ensure that justice prevails,” the CIDG said.
Investigations are ongoing as authorities move to dismantle the remaining links of the smuggling network operating in Zamboanga City and nearby areas.