The Philippine Navy, through the Western Mindanao Naval Command, intercepted two separate maritime smuggling attempts in Western Mindanao within a week, resulting in the seizure of more than P18.8 million worth of illicit tobacco products.

In a statement on tuesday, the Navy said the operations led to the confiscation of undocumented cigarettes and the arrest of individuals involved in the illegal transport activities.

The first operation was conducted on 26 April after naval forces intercepted M/B DAYANG JANNA off the waters of Western Mindanao. 

Authorities discovered around 50 master cases of undocumented cigarettes onboard the vessel.

Based on the corrected valuation from the Bureau of Customs Port of Zamboanga, the seized cargo was estimated to be worth P7.57 million.

The Navy said the vessel’s crew failed to present valid documents for both the boat and its cargo.

A second interception was carried out on May 3 involving an unnamed motorized banca, also known by the alias M/B BAS. Authorities recovered 73 master cases of assorted illicit tobacco products valued at about P11.23 million.

All apprehended individuals were informed of their rights and brought to Naval Station Romulo Espaldon in Zamboanga City for documentation and processing.

The confiscated tobacco products and vessels were later turned over to the Bureau of Customs Port of Zamboanga for proper disposition and the filing of charges under Republic Act 12022.

The Western Mindanao Naval Command said the successful operations highlight the Philippine Navy’s continued efforts to secure the country’s maritime borders and protect the economy from smuggling and other illegal activities.