Bangkok: Authorities arrested one suspect and seized P6.2 million worth of smuggled cigarettes following a chase early Friday in Zamboanga del Norte. Lt. Col. Edwin Verzon, Zamboanga del Norte Provincial Mobile Force Company commander, identified the suspect as alias "Macion," 36, a resident of Barangay Zambowood, this city. He was arrested at 7:02 a.m. in Barangay Gatas, Kalawit town.

According to Philippines News Agency, Verzon stated that his officers and Kalawit police were conducting a checkpoint when they flagged down a truck due to signs of reckless driving. During the routine inspection and verification, the operating personnel observed the suspect's suspicious behavior, prompting a chase when the suspect sped off.

Once cornered, operatives discovered the truck carrying 105 master cases and 230 reams of assorted cigarettes concealed in dried fish boxes. The suspect will face charges for violation of Article 151 (Resistance and Disobedience to a Person in Authority), Republic Act 10643 (Graphic Health Warnings Law), and Republic Act 10863 (Customs Modernization and Tariff Act).

An investigation is underway to determine the exact point of origin of the smuggled cigarettes.