ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines — Police Regional Office (PRO) 9, through the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company, in coordination with the Regional Intelligence Division and Zamboanga City Police Station (ZCPS) 13, recovered a substantial volume of suspected smuggled cigarettes valued at approximately ₱14 million during an early-morning operation at about 4:30 AM along the shoreline of Stanvac, Barangay Campo Islam, Zamboanga City,on Septembet 22.

Authorities received information regarding suspected smuggled cigarettes along the shoreline of Stanvac.

The information was confirmed, resulting in the recovery of abandoned suspected smuggled cigarettes and a motorboat believed to be associated with the contraband.

In coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC), Port of Zamboanga, and ZCPS 13, an inventory of the recovered contraband yielded a total of 94 master cases and 36 reams of “Dunston” cigarettes, with an estimated market value of ₱14,000,000.00.

The recovered cigarettes will be properly turned over to the BOC, Port of Zamboanga, for appropriate disposition in accordance with existing laws, rules, and regulations.

Police Brigadier General Elmer E Ragay regional director, remains steadfast in intensifying law-enforcement operations, strengthening police visibility, and working closely with partner agencies and communities to protect the public and uphold peace, order, and security throughout the region.

PRO 9 remains relentless in its campaign against smuggling, illegal trade, and all forms of criminality.

In line with the Chief, PNP mantra, “Sa Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat, at Nararamdaman,” PRO 9 will continue to strengthen law enforcement operations and strategic partnerships to uphold the rule of law and ensure a safer, more secure, and economically stable Region 9.