BY NONOY LACSON
ZAMBOANGA CITY — The Western Mindanao Naval Command, in coordination with the Bureau of Customs, has intercepted a fishing boat carrying undocumented tobacco products worth more than P16 million.
Acting commander Capt. Hilarion D. Cesista said naval operatives intercepted the motorized fishing vessel “Sea Bird” around 2:30 a.m. Friday, about 14 nautical miles southeast of Timbungan Island, Basilan.
The boat’s five crew members were found with P16.4 million worth of tobacco products believed to be from Malaysia.
The seized items included various brands, such as Fort Menthol, New Aris Red, Astro White and Champion Mild Menthol. The fishing vessel itself was valued at P250,000.
Cesista praised the operation as a sign of the Navy’s “unyielding resolve to protect the nation’s maritime borders against smuggling and other illicit activities.”
The fishing boat and its cargo were turned over to the Bureau of Customs in Zamboanga City. The vessel is accused of violating multiple laws, including the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.
The Western Mindanao Naval Command reaffirmed its commitment to securing the country’s southern maritime frontier and strengthening interagency cooperation in the fight against maritime crime.
