SMUGGLED cigarettes seized in Sulu.
ZAMBOANGA CITY - Troops seized smuggled cigarettes valued at P23 million in the sea of Sulu province on Monday, Sept. 29.
The contraband was composed of 400 master cases of assorted foreign cigarettes.
Authorities held the vessel used in transporting the items and five crew members.
The cargo was formally handed over to the Bureau of Customs for disposition following a joint inventory conducted by WMNC personnel.
Rear Admiral Arturo Reyes Jr., Western Mindanao Naval Command commander, lauded Philippine Navy personnel for their vigilance and professionalism.
"This successful operation sends a clear message to smugglers and lawless elements: Our waters are not safe havens for illegal activities" Reyes said.