The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) seized P2.5 million worth of smuggled cigarettes on a motorized watercraft along the sea waters of Maitum, Sarangani Province, on March 6.
NFEM Public Affairs Officer Lt. Commander Jerome Bryan Mauring, said Barko ng Republika ng Pilipinas (BRP) Rafael Pargas (PC379), one of the Navy ships deployed at NFEM area of responsibility, under the operational control of Naval Task Force 71, was conducting territorial defense operations along the RP-RI common borders when it intercepted a suspicious motorized watercraft.
As a result, approximately 114 master cases of undocumented tobacco products were intercepted and seized, according to Lt Commander Mauring.
It also revealed that said smuggled tobacco products came from Jolo, Sulu intended to be delivered to Maitum, Sarangani Province.
The PDEA K9 Unit Region-XII also conducted inspection for the possible presence of illegal drugs.
The apprehended crew, vessel, and confiscated items were turned over to proper authorities for filing of appropriate charges.
