An operation by local police led to the confiscation of P21 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and the arrest of one individual at the Zamboanga City port on Sunday, November 30, 2025.
Authorities intercepted a wing van carrying 300 master cases of assorted illicit cigarettes. The contraband was cleverly hidden inside the vehicle, which was also loaded with sacks of charcoal in an attempt to disguise the illegal shipment.
Brig. Gen. Edwin Quilates, the regional police director, confirmed the seizure and the apprehension of a 42-year-old resident of Barangay San Jose Cawa-Cawa, who is now facing investigation.
Quilates commended the effective coordination of the operating units, stating the operation “underscores our continuing campaign against smuggling and other illegal activities that undermine lawful trade and national security.”