ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities intercepted a motorized boat loaded with an estimated ₱14 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a maritime law enforcement operation conducted off Barangay Sinunuc on the morning of February 23, 2026.
The operation was carried out by the Regional Maritime Unit 9 (RMU 9) in coordination with other government agencies as part of intensified efforts to curb smuggling and other illegal activities in the country’s coastal waters. The operation took place around 8:30 a.m. while personnel were conducting a seaborne patrol aboard the R9 Tactical Watercraft Mercury-08.
According to reports, the operating team spotted a motorized boat bearing the marking “YANA-1” with three individuals on board. When authorities approached and conducted an inspection, they discovered that the vessel was carrying a large shipment of cigarettes suspected to be illegally transported. The occupants of the boat were unable to present any documents or permits proving the legality of the cargo.
The three suspects, identified only by their aliases “Ab,” “Aki,” and “Jul,” were immediately taken into custody. Meanwhile, the seized motorized boat was towed to the headquarters of the Philippine National Police Maritime Group Regional Maritime Unit 9 located at Baliwasan Seaside in Zamboanga City for proper disposition and documentation.
Authorities reported that the operation led to the confiscation of a motorized boat with an outrigger powered by two Mitsubishi 4DR30 engines, estimated to be worth about ₱1 million. Also seized were 350 master cases, equivalent to 17,500 reams, of assorted cigarette brands believed to be smuggled into the country.
Among the confiscated items were 170 master cases of King Perfect cigarettes, 133 master cases of GreenHill, 10 master cases of New Orleans Light, 12 master cases of Hero, 10 master cases of San Milano King Size, 14 master cases of Bronze Red, and one master case of LG Ice Menthol. Authorities placed the total estimated value of the seized cigarettes at ₱14 million.
Officials have already requested the National Tobacco Administration to conduct an official verification and examination of the confiscated products to determine their origin and compliance with existing regulations.
The arrested suspects, along with the confiscated evidence, remain under the custody of RMU 9 as authorities prepare the necessary documentation and legal proceedings. Investigators are currently preparing to file charges for possible violations of Republic Act No. 12022, also known as the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act of 2024, pending the results of the NTA’s official assessment.
Police officials said the successful operation highlights the ongoing campaign of the Philippine National Police under the leadership of Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. to strengthen law enforcement efforts against smuggling and other transnational crimes.
The PNP-Maritime Group reaffirmed its commitment to intensify patrols and monitoring across the country’s maritime borders to protect the national economy and ensure peace and order in coastal communities. Authorities also urged the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious maritime activities that may be linked to smuggling operations.