₱3.95-M Worth of Smuggled Cigarettes Seized in Tukuran, Zamboanga del Sur

TUKURAN, Zamboanga del Sur (May 2, 2025) — Law enforcement authorities seized nearly ₱4 million worth of smuggled cigarettes and arrested three individuals during a joint anti-smuggling operation conducted in Purok Bombil, Barangay Sugod on Thursday morning.

The coordinated operation was carried out by the Tukuran Municipal Police Station, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 9 (RMFB-9), and the 53rd Infantry Battalion (CAFGU), leading to the interception of three vehicles suspected of transporting the contraband: a red Nissan Sentra, a silver Nissan Elantra, and a white Toyota Hilux.

Apprehended during the operation were a 34-year-old resident of Pagadian City, a 29-year-old from Dumalinao, and a 41-year-old from Labangan.

According to the Bureau of Customs–Pagadian, the confiscated items included 44 master cases and 1,250 rims of assorted smuggled cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱3,953,700.00.

Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine the source and intended distribution network of the seized items.

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Source: Zamboanga del Sur Police Provincial Office

Mindanao People's Press | Sherman Calotes