Police seized an estimated P2.29-million worth of alleged smuggled cigarettes and arrested two men during a checkpoint operation in Barangay Campo Islam, Zamboanga City.
The operation was conducted by personnel of the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company “Seaborne” in coordination with Police Station 11.
Authorities said a blue-grey closed van was flagged down at a fixed checkpoint after officers noticed suspicious boxes inside the vehicle. The driver, a 33-year-old male, and his 31-year-old companion, who acted as van helper, were asked to present documentation for the cargo but failed to show import papers or customs clearance.
During inspection, the occupants voluntarily opened the vehicle and police discovered 40 boxes of cigarettes branded “Walton,” later confirmed as alleged smuggled goods.
The seized items, with an estimated value of P2,292,000, were documented on site pending final valuation and inventory by the Bureau of Customs (BOC). Both suspects were taken into custody and are set to face charges for violation of customs and smuggling laws.
Authorities will also turn over the confiscated goods and the vehicle used in the transport to the BOC for proper disposition.
PNP Chief PGen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the operation underscores the importance of sustained checkpoint enforcement against illegal trade.
“Checkpoints remain a strong line of defense against the transport of illegal goods,” Nartatez said, adding that the PNP will continue to intensify anti-smuggling operations nationwide.
He stressed that the campaign is part of the PNP’s broader transformation agenda focused on stronger law enforcement visibility and disruption of illicit supply chains.
The PNP said it will maintain intensified checkpoint operations in line with the administration’s anti-smuggling drive under President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.