NSFA, Panacan, Davao City — The Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao (NFEM) through BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37) apprehended MB Queen Juhaya while transporting P8- million worth of smuggled cigarettes in the seawaters of Sultan Kudarat, South Cotabato.
The BRP Artemio Ricarte (PS37) under the operational control of Naval Task Force 71 was conducting territorial defense operations in the southern waters of Eastern Mindanao when the unit encountered the said watercraft.
According to Commodore Carlos V Sabarre, Commander, Naval Forces in Eastern Mindanao, the BRP Artemio Ricarte radio challenged the watercraft but was unresponsive.
Instead, said watercraft increased its speed and altered its course.. Hot pursuit followed which resulted in its interception.
Upon investigation, said watercraft was carrying more or less 527 master cases of smuggled cigarettes with an estimated street value of P8 million.
Comm. Sabarre disclosed that upon investigation, naval personnel discovered that one of the crew was an undocumented Malaysian national. An unlicensed firearm was also confiscated.
PS37 escorted the watercraft, along with its six Filipino crew, to Capt. Feranil Pier, Naval Station Felix Apolinario, Panacan, Davao City for proper disposition.
Upon arrival, the Camp Panacan Hospital medical team administered a health checkup of the apprehended crew of MB Queen Juhaya.
Thereafter, the confiscated smuggled items were turned over to the Bureau of Customs District Collection XI for safekeeping while the watercraft was kept at IGACOS Ferry Wharf.
