PCG:Multi-Role Response Vessel 4408 (BRP Cape San Agustin) together with personnel of Coast Guard District South Western Mindanao intercepted a total of 22,000 packs of smuggled rice onboard two vessels, M/L “Overseas” and M/L “Nadeepa” at the vicinity waters off Tamuk Island, Basilan last Friday, August 24.

The team sighted M/L “Overseas” while conducting Maritime Patrol around 04:00PM at the abovementioned vicinity. Immediately they boarded the vessel and found out 10,000 bags of smuggled rice without any pertinent documents.

At about 04:20PM, the team spotted another vessel, M/L “Nadeepa” at the vicinity waters off West of Maluso, Basilan. They boarded the vessel and discovered 12,000 packs of smuggled rice onboard.

Both vessels were apprehended and escorted to Zamboanga City Port for proper turn over to the local Bureau of Customs officials for proper disposition.