AUTHORITIES have seized some P1.4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in the province of Zamboanga Sibugay, the police said Saturday, March 15, 2025.
The Zamboanga Sibugay Maritime Police Station (ZS Marpsta) said the shipment of smuggled cigarettes was intercepted by its personnel and the Bureau of Customs operatives on Thursday, March 13, off the coast of Sibugay Bay.
The ZS Marpsta said its personnel and BOC operatives were conducting seaborne patrol when they saw a motorboat loaded with boxes of cigarettes.
“They tried to approach it, but it immediately fled. After a few minutes of pursuit, the occupants abandoned the boat on the shore and quickly fled,” the ZS Marpsta said in a statement.
The lawmen have seized some P1.4 million worth of cigarettes abandoned by the people aboard the motorboat.
The ZS Marpsta said the confiscated smuggled cigarettes also have no graphic health warning which is in violation of Republic Act 10643.
The confiscated smuggled cigarettes and the motorboat were placed under the custody of ZS Marpsta for proper disposition.
The maritime police continue to intensify their campaign against smuggling and other illegal activities.
The ZS Marpsta has encouraged the public to be vigilant and immediately report any suspicious activity to the authorities to maintain safety and order in the communities. (SunStar Zamboanga)