ZAMBOANGA CITY – Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized P735,000 worth of unstamped cigarettes and arrested a suspect during a buy-bust operation in Barangay Tetuan on December 28, 2025. The raid targeted illegal trade in excise tax-evaded tobacco products, a persistent issue in the Zamboanga Peninsula region.
The suspect, identified as a 38-year-old male resident, was caught selling 15 master cases (7,500 packs) of various brands without the required Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) stamps. Evidence included the cigarettes and marked money used in the operation.
CIDG Regional Field Unit 9 Director Col. Rene Solidarios confirmed the arrest, stating the operation stemmed from intelligence reports on large-scale smuggling and distribution. The suspect faces charges under RA 10963 (TRAIN Law) and RA 8424 (Tax Reform Act) for possession and sale of untaxed goods.
The seized items were turned over to the BIR for documentation and disposal. Authorities noted unstamped cigarettes deprive government of billions in annual revenue while posing health risks from unregulated production.
This bust is part of intensified anti-smuggling drives in Western Mindanao, where porous borders facilitate illicit tobacco trade.
Seizure Snapshot:
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Value | P735,000 |
| Quantity | 15 master cases (7,500 packs) |
| Location | Barangay Tetuan, Zamboanga City |
| Date | December 28, 2025 |
| Arrested | 1 suspect (38-year-old male) |