P30-million worth of smuggled cigarettes seized in Tawi Tawi


Naval Forces Western Mindanao and Bureau of Customs personnel seized P30-million worth of smuggled cigarettes in waters off Simunul Island, Tawi Tawi last Monday, August 23.

Almost P30-million worth of smuggled cigarettes was seized in seas off Tawi Tawi Province last Monday. (NavForWem photo/MANILA BULLETIN)

Authorities apprehended seven crew members on board the motor launch ML Raheenia within the vicinity of Manuk Mankaw, Simunul.

The vessel was reportedly carrying 1,656 cases of assorted smuggled cigarettes valued at P29,980,000.

The vessel was escorted to the Naval Station Romulo Espaldon in Zamboanga City while its crew was also turned over to the Bureau of Customs for disposition.