TF Davao seizes 28.8 M worth of contraband

The Task Force Davao on Monday intercepted a boatload of smuggled cigarettes worth Php 28.8 million in Barangay Ilang.

Capt. Louie John Dema-ala, TF Davao Civil-Military Operations Officer, said during the I-Speak media forum on Thursday that their riverine patrol stationed at Barangay Ilang flagged the boat containing the contraband around 6 a.m.

Dema-ala, also TF Davao spokesperson, said that a concerned citizen informed them of a boat containing smuggled cigarettes traveling from Basilan to Davao City.

“So while on motorboat patrol ang ating mga personahe sa Task Force Davao na-intercept po nila itong isang bangka dito sa may Minterbro Wharf, ito po yung na-report na mayroong smuggled cigarette (While on motorboat patrol, personnel from Task Force Davao intercepted the boat that was reported to be carrying smuggled cigarettes near Minterbro Wharf),” he said.

About 1152 boxes of contraband were found in the boat, and 13 people were arrested during the operation.

In addition to the already existing three entry points of the city, the TF Davao added entry points in Eden, Mahayag, and Malagos. They also deployed two riverine patrols in Bucana and Ilang to further ensure the security of the city.

TF Davao continues to conduct foot patrols, mobile patrols, and random checkpoints, in partnership with the Davao City Police Office. Its riverine patrols also conduct motorboat patrols along with the maritime patrol of the PNP, Coast Guard, and the Philippine Navy.

Dema-ala also reminded the public to follow protocols in checkpoint areas.

“Lahat po ng mga personahe kailangan bababa bitbit ang gamit sabay dadaan po dito sa X-ray machine (All passengers must disembark from the vehicles with their belongings then pass through the X-ray machine),” he said.

TF Davao also continues to encourage Davaoeños to volunteer and support the culture of security program for the safety and security of the city and its people. CIO