Manila: Authorities seized PHP6.5 million worth of assorted smuggled cigarettes and arrested two individuals in a law enforcement operation off this city on Thursday afternoon, police said. Lt. Col. Joel Senogat Jr., commander of the 2nd Zamboanga City Mobile Force Company (ZCMFC), identified the two arrested individuals by their aliases Abdullah and Hussin.

According to Philippines News Agency, the two were arrested when the operating team intercepted a motorboat at about 3:30 p.m. while patrolling near Layag-Layag Island, Barangay Talon-Talon, this city. "Upon inspection, the vessel was found loaded with suspected smuggled cigarettes. The crew failed to present valid shipping or transport documents for the cargo," he said in his report Friday.

Senogat said the operatives seized 2,182 reams of assorted smuggled cigarettes with an estimated market value of PHP6.5 million. The motorboat and its cargo were towed to the 2nd ZCMFC wharf at RT Lim Boulevard, Barangay Baliwasan, this city. The confiscated contraband will be turned over to the Bureau of Customs for proper disposition.

The 2nd ZCMFC, as a seaborne unit, frequently conducts maritime patrol operations within the territorial waters of Zamboanga City to strengthen coastal security against the entry of contraband and ensure public safety.