Photo courtesy of PNP
Authorities swooped down on a warehouse in Titay, Zamboanga Sibugay and uncovered a stash of smuggled cigarettes valued at more than Php 6.4 million, leading to the arrest of its owner.
The operation, carried out on May 28, was backed by a court-issued search warrant for violation of the Anti-Illicit Trade of Tobacco Act. Joint police teams, including maritime and intelligence units, converged on the site following surveillance and verification.
Inside the warehouse, operatives found assorted cigarette products believed to have been distributed without proper duties and documentation, a common tactic in illicit tobacco trade.
The haul was initially pegged at Php 6,418,224, underscoring the scale of the underground operation in the area.
The warehouse owner was immediately taken into custody after being apprised of his rights and the charges he faces.
He was brought to a maritime police facility for documentation as authorities prepared the filing of criminal complaints against him.
Police said the bust reflects a continuing crackdown on smuggling networks that cut into state revenues and distort fair market competition.
Philippine National Police chief General Jose Melencio Nartatez said law enforcers will sustain operations targeting illegal trade, stressing that efforts remain focused on dismantling supply chains and holding those involved accountable.