NEWS

Phl Navy seizes P21.4-M worth of smuggled cigars in Saranggani

Lade Jean Kabagani · Mar 30, 2024, 6:00 PM

An aerial view of the apprehended motorized watercraft with its crew unloading the seized 1,070 master case of smuggled cigarettes. — (Photos by Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao-Public Affairs Office)

The Philippine Navy said it confiscated a motorized banca filled with 1,070 master cases of undocumented tobacco products along the seawaters of Batulaki, Glan, Sarangani on Saturday.

The confiscation happened during the patrol mission of the BA 492, one of the Navy Multi-Purpose Attack Crafts of the 4th Boat Attack Division under operational control of Naval Task Force 71 of Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao.

The BA 492 crew noticed a radar contact while conducting a maritime patrol in the vicinity of Batulaki, Glan in Sarangani province, prompting them to check and inspect the vessel.

At least 17 crew were spotted on board the motorbanca, carrying 1,070 master cases of smuggled cigarettes, with an estimated street value of P21.4 million.

The Navy’s Boat Attack 492 escorted the watercraft carrying the seized goods and 17 crew, to a port in General Santos City and turned to proper authorities.