CIDG seizes almost P29-M smuggled cigarettes in Zamboanga City

Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) operatives confiscate smuggled cigarettes worth nearly P29 million from a facility in Barangay Patalon in Zamboanga City from Wednesday, Nov. 27 to Thursday, Nov. 28. (Photo from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group)

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)announced on Friday that it seized smuggled cigarettes worth nearly P29 million in Zamboanga City.

The CIDG said its operation “Mega Shopper” resulted in the confiscation of 506 cases of cigarettes of assorted brands, worth a total of P28,993,800, without internal revenue stamps at a facility in Barangay Patalon.

The operation stemmed from an order by the Bureau of Internal Revenue to the CIDG Zamboanga City Field Unit and other law enforcement agencies. 

“The CIDG assures the public of its unwavering commitment to enforcing anti-criminality campaigns and putting a stop to illegal and criminal activities,” CIDG Acting Director Brig. Gen. Nicolas Torre III said in a statement.