PNP: P3.9M in smuggled cigarettes recovered in Zamboanga City

Authorities intercepted over P3.9 million worth of suspected smuggled cigarettes in Zamboanga City on Sunday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said.

In a statement, the PNP said the smuggled cigarettes were in a blue minivan without a license plate when these were discovered in the evening of June 7.

The driver abandoned the vehicle upon sensing the presence of law enforcers and fled on foot.

A thorough inspection of the abandoned vehicle yielded several boxes and reams of cigarettes that are suspected to have been unlawfully transported.

The contraband and the vehicle were immediately turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC) Regional Office IX for proper inventory, examination, and legal disposition.

“Patuloy nating pinalalakas ang ating presensya at koordinasyon sa lahat ng operasyon laban sa iligal na aktibidad (We continue to strengthen our presence and coordination in all operations against illegal activities). This is a clear example of how teamwork and alertness can stop unlawful activities before they harm our economy,” said PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

Authorities are investigating the identity of the individual behind the contraband, as well as the networks behind the smuggling attempt. — JMA, GMA News