1.2M worth of smuggled cigarettes confiscated

ZAMBOANGA CITY - A total of 1.2M worth of smuggled imported cigarettes was confiscated by the government troops in Zamboanga City Thursday, the Army today said.

Combined elements of the Joint Task Force Zamboanga, 74^th Infantry Battalion, Bureau of Customs, Philippine Coast Guard-Task Force Aduana, Port Police, and Japan Tobaco Corporation conducted an intelligence driven operation at the Zamboanga City Seaport that resulted in the confiscation of more or less 50 master cases imported smuggled cigarettes, with brand names: Canon, Menthol, and Astro White, mixed with other cargoes loaded in a KIA Bongo Truck.

Said vehicle came from Jolo, Sulu onboard a passenger vessel (MV Lady Mary Joy 1) owned and operated by Aleson Shipping Lines Inc.

Operating troops also apprehended the truck driver, Jalon Sawabi Kalingalan.

“With the strong inter-agency collaboration and the support from the different intelligence units, we are able to fulfil our mandated tasks successfully,” said Lt. Gen. Cirilito Sobejana, commander of the Western Mindanao Command.

“Rest assured, WestMinCom will remain steadfast in accomplishing its mission to end terrorism and lawlessness in its area of operation,” added Lt. Gen. Sobejana.

Confiscated items and vehicle were turned over to the Bureau of Customs for inventory and proper disposition while the apprehended person will be held for further investigation.