ZAMBOANGA CITY — A joint operation by Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group, Zamboanga City Police, and Bureau of Customs (BOC) seized P2.8 million worth of illegal Indonesian cigarettes in a raid last Tuesday, April 1.
Acting on community tips, authorities stormed a storage facility in Baliwasan Seaside, uncovering 95 large boxes of contraband brands, including New Berlin Red, Canon, and Bravo cigarettes—all smuggled through the Sulu and Tawi-Tawi sea routes. Three suspects guarding the illegal stash were arrested on-site.
Why Smuggled Cigarettes Flood Zamboanga
The Zamboanga Peninsula, with its vast coastlines and proximity to Indonesia, has long been a hotspot for illicit tobacco trade. Smugglers exploit weak maritime surveillance, sneaking in untaxed cigarettes that undercut local businesses and deprive the government of millions in revenue.
This raid highlights the growing black market for foreign cigarettes, which are sold cheaply in local sari-sari stores, harming both legitimate traders and public health.
Van Impounded, Suspects Detained
Along with the cigarettes, authorities confiscated a small van valued at P650,000, believed to be used for distribution. Brig. Gen. Roel Rodolfo, PRO-9 director, commended the community informants whose tips led to the bust.
He said public cooperation is key in curbing smuggling the illegal trade.
A Wider Crackdown on Illicit Trade
Radio reports from Cotabato City quoted PRO-12 officials praising Zamboanga residents for their vigilance. With smuggling syndicates growing bolder, inter-agency operations are intensifying across Mindanao to dismantle these illegal networks.
“This is not just about lost taxes—it’s about protecting our economy and our people,” a BOC official stated. “We will keep hunting these smugglers down.”
Officials said this seizure sends a clear warning: The illegal tobacco trade’s days are numbered.
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