By Benjamin Cuaresma
MANILA — Naval forces intercepted more than ₱397.8 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in a series of maritime operations off Sulu, resulting in the seizure of 2,581 master cases of illicit tobacco products and the arrest of 18 crew members in Pagadian City.
The Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) carried out three separate operations from October 29 to November 1, also confiscating the motorized vessels allegedly used to transport the contraband.
The seized cigarettes and vessels had a combined estimated value of ₱397,805,257.60, according to naval authorities.
The arrested crew members were turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC), while appropriate criminal complaints were being pursued.
Rear Adm. Constancio Arturo Reyes Jr., NFWM commander, said the latest interceptions brought the command’s operational record to 76 missions since August last year, with confiscated contraband reaching an estimated ₱4.5 billion.
Reyes said the operations reflected the Navy’s continuing efforts to protect Philippine waters against illegal maritime activities that undermine government revenues, legitimate businesses and the rule of law.
The confiscated vessels and cigarettes were subsequently turned over to the BOC-Port of Zamboanga and other enforcement agencies for inventory, documentation and proper disposition.
Authorities are also investigating possible violations of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and applicable tobacco regulations.
IA/XF
