Collector Segundo Sigmundfreud Barte Jr. attributed the successful seizure of P8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes in Zambasulta recently to the creation of a strengthened Task Force for Anti-Smuggling Operations.

The operation was a joint effort of the Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service and the Enforcement and Security Service-Customs Police Division, the Regional Special Operating Group, CIU-Zamboanga City Police Office and Police Station 11.

The team intercepted 207 master cases of cigarettes with the brand "Arthur" onboard a white Elf van traveling along Barangay Baliwasan in Zamboanga City.

A joint inventory was later conducted with RSOG, ZCPO, PS11 and Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency.

The seized goods and vehicles were found negative for illegal drugs.