CONTRABAND. Task Force Davao (TFD) operatives seize PHP28.8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at Minterbro Wharf, Barangay Ilang, Davao City on Monday (Sept. 25, 2023). Thirteen persons onboard a boat carrying the contraband were arrested by authorities. (Photo courtesy of Task Force Davao)
DAVAO CITY – Task Force Davao seized PHP28.8 million worth of smuggled cigarettes at Minterbro Wharf, Barangay Ilang here on Monday.
In a statement Tuesday, TFD commander Col. Darren Comia said an operation with the Davao City Police Office and Bureau of Customs (BOC)-Davao also resulted in the arrest of 13 passengers from Basilan, Zamboanga, and from the city.
Comia said the suspects were onboard a boat carrying the contraband which consisted of 1,152 boxes of suspected smuggled assorted cigarettes.
The suspects and the illegal items were immediately turned over to the BOC-Davao for the filing of charges in violation of Republic Act 4712 or An Act Amending Certain Sections of Tariff and Customs Code of the Philippines (Smuggled Cigarettes).
“I thank the Dabawenyos anew, for the support and cooperation especially in the implementation of ‘pag may nakita, dapat magsalita’ (if you see something suspicious, report it) culture of security campaign of Davao City,” Comia said.
He said the seizure was made possible following a tip from a concerned citizen who reported the presence of a motorized boat in their area. (PNA)
