Navy, Customs seize 20,000 sacks of smuggled rice

ZAMBOANGA CITY, Philippines –Three vessels loaded with more than 20,000 sacks of suspected smuggled rice were intercepted by the Philippine Navy and Bureau of Customs near Jolo, Sulu on Thursday, an official said yesterday,

 Customs district officer Capt. Miguel Pio Saquisani said M/L Ayang and two smaller vessels were taken to the Philippines Port Authority wharf for inventory.

Saquisani said they received reports that M/L Ayang, which was docked at the port, was loaded with around 10,000 sacks of smuggled rice. However, the vessel’s crew escaped, prompting Navy and Customs personnel to give chase.

Coast Station deputy commander Chief Petty Officer Ronald Tolentino said M/L Ayang would be meted a P50,000 fine for leaving the port without permission.

Tolentino said they would also conduct an investigation if the vessel has permits to operate.