ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities intercepted a closed van loaded with suspected smuggled cigarettes worth over ₱2.2 million in an intelligence-driven anti-smuggling operation, uncovering a scheme that allegedly disguised the contraband as online retail parcels.
The operation, carried out along Bypass Road at the boundary of Barangays Boalan and Tugbungan, was led by the Regional Anti-Cybercrime Unit–Zamboanga City (RA-ZC RID9) in coordination with Police Station 5 (Divisoria), the Regional Special Operations Unit (RSOU), and the City Intelligence Unit of the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO).
Seized during the operation were boxes of suspected imported cigarettes with an estimated value of ₱2,219,760. Authorities said the items were carefully packed and labeled to resemble legitimate courier deliveries, indicating a possible attempt to exploit the growing online selling and logistics sector to transport illegal goods undetected.
The closed van, reportedly bearing the markings of a parcel delivery company, was flagged down after authorities received intelligence information regarding the transport of contraband in the area.
According to police reports, the driver failed to present the necessary documents or permits for the shipment, prompting authorities to immediately confiscate both the vehicle and its cargo.
Investigators are now working to determine the origin of the smuggled cigarettes, as well as identify other individuals or groups potentially involved in the illegal operation. Authorities are also looking into the possible misuse of courier systems to facilitate smuggling activities.
The confiscated items and the vehicle are currently under the custody of law enforcement agencies for proper documentation and the filing of appropriate charges.
As of press time, there has been no official statement from J&T Express, whose branding was reportedly seen on the intercepted vehicle.