Authorities intercepted a motorized boat carrying an estimated ₱6.5 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a maritime patrol operation off the coast of Zamboanga City on Thursday, August 6, as part of intensified efforts to curb illegal smuggling activities in the region.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company (2nd ZCMFC) Seaborne Unit, led by PLT Marc Angelo D. Dipasupil under the supervision of PLTCOL Joel A. Senogat Jr.
According to the police, at approximately 3:30 p.m., the seaborne patrol team spotted a blue and gray motorized boat navigating the waters off Layag-Layag Island in Barangay Talon-Talon, Zamboanga City. The vessel was occupied by two individuals, prompting authorities to conduct a routine maritime inspection.
During the inspection, law enforcers discovered that the boat was loaded with numerous reams of assorted cigarettes believed to have been smuggled, including the brands Cannon, Berlin, and Bravo.
The crew allegedly failed to present any valid shipping, transport, or customs documents to prove the legality of the cargo, raising suspicion that the cigarette shipment had been unlawfully transported into the country.
Following the inspection, the operating team towed the motorized boat to the 2nd ZCMFC Wharf along RT Lim Boulevard in Barangay Baliwasan, Zamboanga City, where the vessel and its cargo were placed under police custody for proper disposition, documentation, and inventory.
Authorities estimated the total market value of the seized cigarettes at approximately ₱6.5 million.
To ensure proper handling of the confiscated goods, the 2nd ZCMFC coordinated with the Bureau of Customs (BOC) – Port of Zamboanga and the Zamboanga City Police Station 12 (Talon-Talon Police Station) for the official inventory, marking, and processing of the suspected contraband.
Police said a comprehensive progress report will be released as the investigation continues, including the determination of the origin and intended destination of the cigarette shipment, as well as any possible violations of customs and tax laws.
The seizure underscores the continuing campaign of law enforcement agencies to combat the illegal smuggling of tobacco products, which deprives the government of millions of pesos in taxes and poses significant challenges to legitimate businesses.
Authorities reiterated that maritime patrols and coastal law enforcement operations will remain intensified across Zamboanga City’s coastal waters to prevent the entry and transport of illegal contraband, strengthen border security, and protect public safety. The case remains under further investigation pending the filing of appropriate charges against those responsible.