P15-M smuggled cigarettes seized in Zamboanga Sibugay

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ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities seized smuggled cigarettes worth P15.3 million and arrested a 25-year-old laborer during an anti-smuggling operation Tuesday in Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay.
Brigadier General Bowenn Joey Masauding, director of Police Regional Office-9 (PRO-9), said Wednesday the operation took place around 3:40 a.m. in Purok 4, Barangay Laih, and was coordinated with the Bureau of Customs.

Confiscated during the operation were 261 master cases, 314 reams, and 33 packs of assorted smuggled cigarettes.

“The PRO-9 remains committed to continuing its efforts against illegal smuggling and other criminal activities in the region,” Masauding said in a statement.

The arrested suspect and the seized contraband were taken to the Siay Municipal Police Station for proper documentation and disposition.

Masauding underscored the importance of coordinated operations to combat the illegal importation and distribution of contraband goods in the region. (PNA)