By Teofilo Garcia, Jr.

SEIZED CONTRABAND. The smuggled cigarettes seized from two suspected smugglers by Western Mindanao Naval Command operatives off the waters of Hadji Muhtamad town in Basilan on Sunday morning (Sept. 28, 2025). The contraband, valued at PHP2.7 million, was turned over to the Bureau of Customs. (Photo courtesy of WMNC)

ZAMBOANGA CITY – Western Mindanao Naval Command (WMNC) agents arrested two suspects and seized PHP2.7 million worth of smuggled cigarettes early Sunday off Basilan province.

WMNC commander Rear Admiral Constancio Arturo Reyes Jr. said the contraband was intercepted around 1:23 a.m. in the waters off Hadji Muhtamad town.

Two crew members, both residents of Basilan, were taken into custody, along with the illegal items.

Reyes said sailors aboard BRP-Herminigildo Yurong (PG906) were conducting a maritime security patrol when they chanced upon M/B Water Blade.

M/B Water Blade was carrying 40 master cases of assorted foreign-brand cigarettes.

“This apprehension demonstrates our unrelenting commitment to protect the country’s waters against smuggling and other illegal activities. WMNC will remain steadfast in supporting inter-agency efforts to secure our maritime borders and preserve economic stability,” Reyes said in a statement.

The seized items and vessel have been turned over to the Bureau of Customs – Port of Zamboanga for proper disposition following a joint inventory with WMNC.

Sunday’s apprehension of smuggled cigarettes came three days after sailors of BRP-Herminigildo Yurong also arrested five individuals and seized some PHP9.1 million worth of contraband off Sulu. (PNA)