Photo courtesy of PNP
Authorities recovered more than Php 4 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes after two men allegedly fled during a joint operation along the shoreline of Barangay Patalon, Zamboanga City.
The operation was conducted on Aug. 8 by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 9, Zamboanga City Police Office Station 10 and Bureau of Customs 9.
Authorities recovered 24 master cases and 30 reams of suspected smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of Php 4,041,932, according to the Philippine National Police.
Two men identified only by the aliases “Alnagder” and “Pandi” were reportedly present when authorities approached the area.
Police said the two allegedly abandoned the cigarette shipment and escaped on foot. No arrests were reported during the operation.
The recovered products were placed under the custody of CIDG Regional Field Unit 9 for proper disposition and possible legal action.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said coordinated operations with other government agencies were important in intercepting illicit goods and protecting legitimate businesses.
The PNP said it would continue working with the Bureau of Customs and other agencies in operations targeting smuggling and other forms of illicit trade.
