ZAMBOANGA CITY – Authorities recovered an estimated ₱4.79 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a coastal anti-smuggling operation conducted by the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company (2nd ZCMFC) “Seaborne” within the territorial waters of Zamboanga City.
The successful operation was carried out by personnel of the 2nd ZCMFC “Seaborne” under the supervision of PLTCOL Joel A. Senogat Jr., Force Commander, as part of the unit’s intensified maritime security and anti-smuggling patrols.
During the seaborne patrol, authorities discovered an abandoned motorboat carrying 32 master cases of Green Hills Menthol cigarettes, which were suspected to have been illegally smuggled into the country.
The operation was conducted in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), which estimated the market value of the recovered contraband at approximately ₱4.79 million.
Following the recovery, the seized cigarettes were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper inventory, custody, and disposition in accordance with existing customs laws and regulations.
Authorities have yet to identify the individuals responsible for the abandoned shipment. An investigation is underway to trace the origin and intended destination of the smuggled cigarettes, as well as to determine those involved in the illegal operation.
The recovery underscores the continued efforts of the 2nd ZCMFC “Seaborne” and its partner agencies to strengthen maritime security and intensify the campaign against smuggling activities in Western Mindanao. Coastal patrols remain a key strategy in intercepting illegal shipments entering the country’s borders through maritime routes.
Law enforcement authorities reaffirmed their commitment to sustaining coordinated anti-smuggling operations to protect the country’s borders, safeguard government revenues, and disrupt criminal networks engaged in the illicit trade of smuggled goods.