ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities arrested a 33-year-old man and confiscated nearly ₱4.5 million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes during a joint anti-smuggling operation conducted shortly after midnight on July 5 in Barangay Mampang, Zamboanga City.
The operation, carried out at around 12:20 a.m., was jointly conducted by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Zamboanga City Field Unit, the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Regional Office IX, and the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) as part of intensified efforts to curb the illegal transport and distribution of untaxed tobacco products in Western Mindanao.
According to a report submitted to CIDG Director PMGEN Robert AA Morico II, operatives intercepted a Toyota Hi-Ace van driven by a suspect identified only by the alias “Min,” a 33-year-old married resident of Barangay Mampang.
A search of the vehicle led to the discovery of a large quantity of alleged smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of ₱4,491,664.80. Authorities also found that the tobacco products allegedly lacked the mandatory tax stamps required under Philippine law.
Investigators said the suspect was unable to present any documents authorizing the lawful possession, transport, distribution, or sale of the tobacco products, prompting his immediate arrest for the alleged violation of Republic Act No. 10863, otherwise known as the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
The confiscated cigarettes, along with the Toyota Hi-Ace van used in transporting the contraband, were taken into government custody as evidence while the suspect underwent documentation and legal processing.
Strengthening the Fight Against Smuggling
Morico stressed that the enforcement of the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act remains a critical component of the government’s campaign against smuggling and customs fraud.
He emphasized that Republic Act No. 10863 was enacted to modernize and streamline customs and tariff administration, improve revenue collection, facilitate legitimate trade, and strengthen the government’s capability to prevent and suppress smuggling activities while promoting efficiency, transparency, and integrity in customs operations.
The CIDG further underscored that cigarette smuggling continues to pose serious economic and security concerns nationwide.
Authorities noted that illegally imported cigarettes deprive the government of billions of pesos in customs duties and excise or “sin” taxes, create unfair competition for legitimate businesses, and undermine public health policies aimed at regulating tobacco consumption. The illegal trade also provides opportunities for organized criminal groups to profit from illicit activities while evading government regulations.
CIDG Commends Operating Units
Following the successful operation, the CIDG leadership commended CIDG Regional Field Unit 9, headed by PCOL Rafael D. Lero, and the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit, led by PLTCOL Aurelio S. Domingo, for their coordinated efforts with the Bureau of Customs Regional Office IX in intercepting the alleged contraband and apprehending the suspect.
The operation forms part of the continuing nationwide campaign of law enforcement agencies to dismantle smuggling networks and protect government revenues by intensifying border security and enforcing customs laws against the illegal movement of taxable goods.