Authorities intercepted P21-million worth of allegedly smuggled cigarettes in waters off Zamboanga City, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said on Thursday.
This was the result of a police maritime patrol operation late Wednesday afternoon, according to the PNP in a statement.
‘The team spotted two motorized boats locally known as ‘Jungkung’ navigating suspiciously near Santa Cruz Island,’ the police explained.
‘Upon inspection, they discovered the vessels were loaded with 300 master cases of smuggled cigarettes. with a combined value of approximately P21,000,000.00,’ it added.
The PNP noted that it arrested seven adult male individuals aboard the boats. It did not identify them nor give details about their background.
The suspects and the confiscated cigarettes were taken to the Zamboanga City Police Station.
Mugshots shared by the PNP showed the suspects were awaiting a case for violation of Republic Act No. 12022 or the Anti-Agricultural Sabotage Act.