Authorities intercepted an estimated P22.29 million worth of illicit cigarettes and arrested four suspects during a maritime law enforcement operation in the municipal waters of Siay, Zamboanga Sibugay, early Friday, the Philippine National Police (PNP) reported on Saturday.

The operation was led by the Maritime Group’s Regional Maritime Unit 9 in coordination with local police and other law enforcement agencies after authorities received intelligence about the alleged sea transport of contraband. Operatives intercepted a motorized pump boat carrying hundreds of master cases of suspected illicit cigarettes.

The four suspects, all adult Filipino men, failed to present documents proving the lawful transport and possession of the cargo. They were informed of their constitutional rights before being taken into police custody.

Seized during the operation were 375 master cases of assorted illicit cigarettes valued at approximately P21.49 million, along with the motorized boat used to transport the contraband, bringing the total estimated value of the confiscated items to P22.29 million.

Authorities are preparing charges against the suspects for alleged violations of the Anti-Agricultural Economic Sabotage Act and other applicable laws, while further validation and case build-up continue.

PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the successful operation supports the PNP’s Focused Agenda, particularly its Enhanced Managing Police Operations program, by intensifying the campaign against smuggling and other illegal activities that undermine legitimate industries and deprive the government of much-needed revenue. He added that the operation is also in line with President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s directive to strengthen law enforcement efforts that protect the country’s economy and secure its borders.

Nartatez commended the operating teams for their swift and coordinated response.

“We are not just stopping the smuggling of contraband. We are also protecting our economy, the livelihoods of legitimate businesses, and the public’s trust in the rule of law. I commend our personnel and partner agencies for remaining vigilant and committed to their duty. We will continue our operations against illegal activities while ensuring that every police action is carried out in accordance with the law and with full respect for the rights of every individual,” the PNP chief said.

He added that the PNP remains committed to sustaining intelligence-driven operations against economic crimes and smuggling as it continues to uphold its campaign, Bagong PNP para sa Bagong Pilipinas: Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman, in support of safer communities and a stronger, more secure nation.