195 reams of smuggled cigarettes seized in Zambales

The Zambales Police seized some 195 reams of smuggled cigarettes and arrested a suspect during a checkpoint operation held at Barangay Gama in the town of Sta. Cruz, Zambales on 24 February 2026.

According to the Zambales Police Provincial Office (PPO), during a checkpoint operation conducted by 1st PMFC, Zambales PPO, led by team leader PCPT William Bimmoy, one Mitsubishi L300 was intercepted. Upon inspection, 195 reams of MODERN cigarettes were discovered inside the vehicle.

The cigarette packs were not affixed with the required BIR tax stamps, and the suspect failed to present any delivery receipt or pertinent documents to prove lawful possession. The confiscated items have an estimated value of P65,000.00.

The suspect was arrested, and the confiscated items were temporarily held for proper documentation and coordination with the Bureau of Internal Revenue for possible violation of the National Internal Revenue Code (NIRC).