World · Philippines Bureau
Philippine police seize P17.65 million in contraband cigarettes
Authorities across the Zamboanga Peninsula conducted multiple operations that intercepted a substantial shipment of suspected smuggled cigarettes valued at over P17 million. The coordinated anti-smuggling drive underscores ongoing efforts to combat illicit tobacco trafficking in the region.
LSN Philippines ·
Philippine National Police units operating across the Zamboanga Peninsula conducted a series of successful interdiction operations on Wednesday that netted approximately P17.65 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes, according to the Police Regional Office 9 (PRO-9).
The anti-smuggling operations were carried out simultaneously across multiple locations throughout the region as part of an intensified crackdown on illicit tobacco trade. Police Lt. Col. Shellamie Chang, chief of PRO-9's Regional Public Information Office, confirmed the results of the coordinated enforcement drive.
The seizures highlight the persistent challenge posed by cigarette smuggling in Mindanao, where porous borders and maritime routes continue to facilitate the movement of contraband goods. The confiscated products are suspected to have originated from outside the Philippines and were destined for local black markets.
The contraband cigarettes have been turned over to appropriate authorities for documentation and disposition in accordance with existing regulations. Police have pledged to maintain heightened surveillance along known smuggling routes and continue coordinated operations with partner agencies to disrupt illegal tobacco trafficking networks in the region.