By Brian Jules Campued
Over P114 million worth of contraband cigarettes were seized by operatives of the Philippine Marine Corps (PMC) and Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Zamboanga City on Jan. 26, according to the Philippine Navy (PN).
In a joint maritime security patrol in the seawaters of Brgy. Baliwasan and Brgy. Campo Islam, the Marine Battalion Landing Team-11 and the BOC intercepted three watercraft carrying assorted illegal cigarettes.
The operation yielded about 1,981 master cases totalling to P114,002,934, the PMC said in a statement.
“The contraband haul yielded 1,981 master cases worth PhP 114 million, one of the biggest in history,” it added.
The apprehended crew were brought to Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company for proper assessment while the confiscated items were turned over to the BOC.
The Marine Battalion Landing Team-11 underscored its commitment to uphold the law and ensure the safety of Zamboanga City.
“By relentlessly pursuing such unlawful activities, the collaborative forces involved seek to maintain a city free from the clutches of illegal endeavors, safeguarding the well-being and legal rights of every citizen,” it added. – avds