Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Operation Intercept Human Trafficking

PAGADIAN CITY (Feb. 12, 2019) – Operating units of Naval Forces Western Mindanao (NFWM) in coordination with other law enforcement agencies conducted Joint Maritime Law Enforcement Operation and successfully intercepted a Motor Launch (M/L) engaged in Human Trafficking at sea waters of Zamboanga City on February 11, 2019.

Naval Forces Western Mindanao Commander Rear Admiral Rene V. Medina disclosed that the Joint Maritime Law Enforcement operating units involved during the apprehension of the said Motor Launch were Philippine Navy vessel (BA486), Naval Special Operation Unit - 6 (NAVSOU-6), Naval Intelligence and Security Group - Western Mindanao, Joint Task Force Zamboanga, CDSWM, CGIG-SWM, DSWD 9, DOJ and PCTC.

Medina identified the intercepted Motor Launch as M/L MONEZA, boarded with Traffic in Person (TIP).

During the conduct of Joint Maritime Law Enforcement operation, BA486 with NAVSOU-6 boarded and cleared M/L MONEZA and embarked CGIG-SWM, DSWD 9, DOJ and PCTC personnel for further interrogation of the TIPs. Initial interrogation reveals that the M/L is boarded with 20 TIPs.

Subsequently, BA486 and boat units of CDSWM escorted M/L MONEZA to Zamboanga City Pier for proper disposition.

 The successful foiling of Human Trafficking is a result of Joint Maritime Law Enforcement operations of the Philippine Navy and partner agencies. The Philippine Navy through the Naval Forces Western Mindanao and partners will continue to deter any unlawful activities in its area of operations for a secured Western Mindanao maritime environment. (By JONG CADION with NFWM PAO PR and photos)