Authorities seized an estimated ₱4.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested one suspect during a joint anti-smuggling operation conducted by the police and the Bureau of Customs in Barangay Sinunuc, Zamboanga City.
According to a report from the Police Regional Office 9, law enforcement operatives successfully intercepted a vehicle believed to be transporting contraband cigarettes in the area. The operation was carried out as part of intensified efforts to curb the proliferation of smuggled tobacco products in the region.
Authorities apprehended one suspect during the operation after the vehicle was stopped and inspected. Recovered from the suspect were 66 master cases of assorted illegal cigarettes believed to have been smuggled into the country.
The Bureau of Customs estimated the value of the confiscated contraband at approximately ₱4.5 million.
Officials said the seizure forms part of ongoing enforcement actions against smuggling activities, which continue to undermine legitimate businesses and deprive the government of millions of pesos in tax revenues.
The arrested suspect is currently under police custody and is expected to face charges for violations of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act and other related laws against smuggling.
Authorities are also conducting further investigation to determine the source of the contraband cigarettes and identify other individuals who may be involved in the illegal operation.
Police and customs authorities reiterated their commitment to strengthening border and checkpoint operations in western Mindanao, particularly in key entry points such as Zamboanga City, which has long been considered a strategic gateway for trade and maritime activities in the region.