Seven men were arrested while about P21 million worth of allegedly smuggled cigarettes were intercepted during a seaborne operation off Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, on Saturday, Aug. 15.
The Philippine National Police said personnel of the Maritime Group’s 4th Special Operations Unit, with support from other police and Philippine Coast Guard units, intercepted a motorized banca during a patrol in the waters off Sipalay.
The vessel, identified as “AMOR PATI,” was reportedly carrying 525 master cases or 26,250 reams of cigarettes with an estimated total value of P21 million.
Police said 220 master cases of one cigarette brand were valued at P8.8 million, while another 305 master cases were valued at P12.2 million.
The seven arrested men are all from Zamboanga City, including the 48-year-old boat captain.
Authorities also confiscated the motorized banca, which was powered by twin engines and reportedly had a defaced engine number.
The suspects and seized items were brought to the headquarters of the 4th Special Operations Unit for documentation and the filing of charges.
Police said the suspects may face complaints for alleged violations of Republic Act 12022, or the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act, Republic Act 10863, or the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act, and Republic Act 10643, or the Graphic Health Warnings Law.
The National Tobacco Administration is expected to conduct the final valuation of the confiscated cigarettes.
PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said authorities will continue strengthening maritime patrols to prevent smuggled goods from entering local markets.
“Stopping these shipments before they reach the market is critical to protecting legitimate businesses and enforcing our laws,” Nartatez said.*
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