PCG seizes 70 boxes of smuggled cigarettes in Zamboanga City


The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) bared Friday, July 9, that it has seized at least 70 boxes of alleged smuggled cigarettes loaded on a motorbanca in Layag-Layag, Zamboanga City.

​The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) seizes at least 70 cases of smuggled cigarettes that were loaded on a motorbanca in Layag-Layag, Zamboanga City on July 7, 2021.​ (Photo courtesy of the PCG)

In a statement, the PCG said personnel of BRP Bagacay (MRRV-4410) intercepted the motorbanca “Dynasty" with four crew members onboard last Wednesday.

The crew members were identified as Karbi Askalani, Benhar Saraba, Ridzkan Hussin, and Radzman Baltapa.

The Coast Guard said the smuggled cigarettes were found on board during a routine inspection.

​The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) seizes at least 70 cases of smuggled cigarettes that were loaded on a motorbanca in Layag-Layag, Zamboanga City on July 7, 2021.​ (Photo courtesy of the PCG)

The PCG K9 Force conducted paneling inspection to determine if the boxes also had narcotics substance or improvised explosive device. The inspection yielded negative results.

Meanwhile, the motorbanca was towed to Zamboanga City International Port for further investigation.