Law enforcement authorities arrested two individuals and confiscated approximately P17.4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes during a maritime operation in the waters off Sugod village, Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur, the police reported on Thursday, July 9, 2026.
Operation Details
The Zamboanga del Sur Maritime Police Station (ZDS MARPSTA) led the seaborne patrol on Monday, July 7, acting on an intelligence report. The operatives intercepted a motorboat named “Vilma” carrying a large volume of assorted cigarette products. The two suspects, both 24 years old, were aboard the vessel and failed to present any documentation for their cargo, which consisted of an estimated 300 master cases or 15,000 reams of assorted cigarette brands.
Seizure and Charges
In addition to the cigarettes, authorities also seized the motorboat used in the transport, bringing the total estimated value of confiscated items to P18.4 million. The two arrested individuals will face charges for violation of Section 7 of Republic Act No. 12022, also known as the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, along with other related laws.
