BASILAN — Authorities seized 10 master cases, equivalent to 500 reams, of Astro Red cigarettes with an estimated value of P573,000 during a joint seaborne patrol operation in the coastal waters of Sitio Tehem, Barangay Townsite, Maluso, Basilan, on September 29, 2026.
The operation was conducted by the Basilan Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) in coordination with the Maluso Municipal Police Station, 2nd Provincial Mobile Force Company (2nd PMFC) Basilan, and the Bureau of Customs (BOC)–Isabela, Basilan.
The joint operation was launched after authorities received information regarding the alleged unloading of a suspicious shipment along the coastal area of Sitio Tehem.
During the operation, law enforcement personnel recovered the cigarettes, which were allegedly being handled without the presence of a person who could identify himself or herself as the shipment’s legitimate owner.
Authorities also reported that no documents, permits, or other proof of lawful importation were presented for the seized cigarettes at the time of the operation.
Because of the absence of documentation supporting their legal importation, the shipment was treated by authorities as suspected smuggled cigarettes and was subjected to the appropriate procedures for possible violations of Republic Act No. 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA).
The law provides the legal framework governing customs administration, including the regulation of imported goods and the enforcement of customs laws and regulations.
The seized cigarettes are currently under the custody of the Basilan MARPSTA pending the completion of the necessary documentation, legal procedures, and appropriate disposition in coordination with the concerned authorities.
The operation underscores the continuing efforts of maritime law enforcement and customs authorities in Basilan to monitor coastal areas and prevent the entry and movement of undocumented or potentially illicit shipments.
Authorities have not identified a claimant for the seized cigarettes based on the information available from the operation report. Further proceedings will determine the legal status and final disposition of the confiscated goods.