Authorities seized about P4.7 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes during a maritime interdiction operation before dawn in Brgy. Nagbo-alao, Basay, Negros Oriental, on Saturday, March 14.
The operation was conducted by operatives of the Philippine National Police Maritime Group 4th Special Operations Unit with support from the Basay Municipal Police Station and the Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office.
Police said the operation stemmed from information about the unloading of contraband cigarettes along the coastal area.
Authorities said several individuals fled upon sensing the presence of law enforcement, leaving behind boxes of cigarettes.
A motorized banca believed to have transported the contraband also left the area before authorities arrived.
Operatives recovered 83 boxes of cigarettes with an estimated value of P4,755,900.
Police said the shipment included about P4.46 million worth of white-pack cigarettes and P286,900 worth of red-pack cigarettes.
The items were inventoried on-site in the presence of a barangay official.
Authorities said the seized cigarettes were brought to the Maritime Group headquarters for documentation and proper disposition.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr. said maritime operations will continue to prevent smuggling and protect government revenues.
Police said efforts to identify and arrest the individuals involved are ongoing.*
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