Authorities have intercepted over P31 million worth of smuggled cigarettes, restricted marine materials and four vehicles allegedly used to transport said illegal goods in a series of operations for the month of July in the Port Area in Zamboanga.

The Bureau of Customs (BOC) in Zamboanga said four separate operations were carried out last month resulting in the confiscation of 370 master cases of smuggled cigarettes and 250 sacks of white sand containing broken corals.

BOC said drivers failed to present import documents and other required permits. 

Customs issued Warrants and Seizure Detention for the said items, citing violations of the “Tobacco Exportation and Importation Rules and Regulations” pursuant to Executive Order no. 245 and the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act. 

Seizure of the marine materials also violated the Philippine Mining Act of 1995 and Batas Blg. 265 which prohibits the extraction of gravel and sand from beaches. 

The confiscated items are now under forfeiture proceedings.