Authorities seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth around P4 million in separate operations in Zamboanga City and Tulunan, Cotabato.

The 2nd City Mobile Force Company of the Zamboanga City Police Office (ZCPO) launched an operation after receiving information about cigarette smuggling in Sta. Cruz Island in Barangay Sta. Barbara.

During the operation, police intercepted a motorboat loaded with 50 master cases of cigarettes worth around P2.8 million.

Police arrested three crew members after they reportedly failed to present documents for the cargo.

The confiscated items and the motorboat were turned over to the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

Meanwhile, authorities also seized alleged smuggled cigarettes worth nearly P1.3 million at a checkpoint in Barangay Sibsib, Tulunan, Cotabato.

Police arrested the 26-year-old suspect who was heading to Makilala, Cotabato from Tacurong, Sultan Kudarat.

During inspection, police spotted several boxes of assorted cigarettes inside the vehicle in plain view.

The suspect is facing charges while the confiscated items were turned over to the BOC.