World · Philippines Bureau
Police seize P2.6M in contraband cigarettes in Zamboanga del Sur
Authorities arrested two men after intercepting a vehicle carrying over P2.6 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur. The operation marks another enforcement action against illicit tobacco trafficking in the region.
LSN Philippines ·
PAGADIAN CITY — Police have seized a substantial shipment of contraband cigarettes valued at more than P2.6 million following an operation in Labangan, Zamboanga del Sur on October 5.
The Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office conducted the operation in Barangay Lantian, intercepting a vehicle carrying the suspect cigarettes. Two male suspects were taken into custody during the raid, according to Captain Derf Jay Maquinta, spokesperson for the provincial police office.
The seized cigarettes are believed to be part of a smuggling operation, though further investigation is ongoing to determine the source and intended destination of the contraband goods. The confiscated products have been turned over to appropriate authorities for processing and disposition.
The operation underscores ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies in Mindanao to combat illicit cigarette smuggling, which deprives the government of significant tax revenue and undermines legitimate tobacco businesses in the region.