TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur — Authorities arrested two individuals and confiscated approximately P2.85 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during an anti-smuggling operation in Barangay Baclay, Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur on June 11, 2026.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Zamboanga del Sur Field Unit in coordination with the Tukuran Municipal Police Station and other law enforcement units as part of the Philippine National Police’s intensified campaign against smuggling and other economic crimes.
According to police reports, operatives intercepted a shipment of illegally imported cigarettes being transported through the area, leading to the arrest of two suspects and the seizure of around 50 master cases of smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of P2,850,000.
The suspects were immediately taken into custody while the confiscated contraband was secured for proper inventory and documentation.
Authorities are preparing appropriate charges against the arrested individuals for violations of customs and related laws. The seized cigarettes have been turned over to the proper authorities for further investigation and legal disposition.
The operation forms part of the PNP’s Focused Agenda under Enhanced Managing Police Operations, which seeks to strengthen coordinated law enforcement efforts against organized illegal activities that threaten economic stability and public welfare.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. lauded the operating units for their successful operation and reiterated the organization’s commitment to combating smuggling activities nationwide.
“Walang puwang ang smuggling sa ating komunidad. These successful operations show how coordination and discipline produce real results on the ground,” Nartatez said.
The PNP emphasized that anti-smuggling operations will continue across the country as part of its efforts to protect government revenues, support legitimate businesses, and dismantle illegal trade networks operating in various regions.