THE Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM), operating through the Naval Task Force (NTF) 61 and in collaboration with the Bureau of Customs, successfully intercepted 3 motor launches involved in the transport of illicit goods during a joint maritime operation in the waters of Sulu Province on January 13-14, 2024.
In the course of the operation, NTF61 units discovered approximately 700 boxes of undocumented tobacco products valued at around PHP 14,000,000.
The vessel, M/B JFM, also carried illegal firearms, including one M653 rifle and one Cal. 45 pistol with accompanying ammunition, allegedly originating from the Municipality of Pangutaran Sulu and heading towards Palawan.
However, due to engine trouble, the vessel returned to the Municipality of Pangutaran and was then intercepted by the operatives somewhere in North Ubian, Municipality of Pangutaran, Sulu Province, at midnight of January 14, 2024.
While thereat, another vessel, M/L Somewhere-5, allegedly coming from Palawan and heading towards Pangutaran Island, Sulu, was also intercepted and thereafter discovered to be carrying approximately PHP 3.3 million worth of undocumented petroleum products and 164 sacks of Ammonium Nitrate.
Similarly, M/L Fatima Daniya, intercepted somewhere in northwest Basbas Island, Sulu, was found to be transporting approximately 100,000 liters of undocumented petroleum products approximately valued at PHP 6,500,000 allegedly from the Municipality of Mapun, Tawi-Tawi and heading towards Sulu Province.
Adhering to established protocols, NTF61 Units provided a prize crew for each vessel to ensure the the proper turnover of the apprehended cargoes and watercraft to the Bureau of Customs.
Rear Admiral Donn Anthony L. Miraflor, PN Commander NFWM, expressed satisfaction and pride, stating that the success of this operation underscores the professionalism and dedication of NFWM in safeguarding the country’s maritime boundaries and upholding the rule of law.
