Police seized more than P420,000 worth of diesel fuel, containers, and equipment allegedly used in illegal petroleum trading during an operation in Bustos, Bulacan.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) said operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-Northern District Field Unit, in coordination with the Department of Energy-Luzon Field Office, conducted the operation on May 12 in Barangay Camachilihan.
Authorities arrested a male suspect known by the alias “Al” after he was allegedly caught in connection with an unauthorized “paihi” operation, a scheme involving the illegal transfer and sale of fuel products.
The CIDG said the seized items included several containers filled with diesel and other materials believed to have been used in the illegal operation.
Investigators said the activity was allegedly carried out without the required permits. Authorities also warned that the improper handling and storage of petroleum products could pose serious safety risks to nearby communities.
PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units for the coordinated operation, saying the campaign against illegal fuel trading is also a public safety concern.
“Ang kaligtasan ng publiko ang pangunahing konsiderasyon natin sa bawat operasyon. Sa pakikipagtulungan sa iba’t ibang ahensya, mas napapalakas natin ang kampanya laban sa mga gawaing maaaring magdulot ng panganib sa mga komunidad,” Nartatez said.
He said the PNP would continue to work with other government agencies to stop illegal operations while ensuring that law enforcement remains fair, impartial, and rights-based.
“Sa tulong ng mamamayan at ng iba’t ibang ahensya ng gobyerno, mas magiging epektibo ang ating kampanya laban sa ilegal na operasyon. Hinihikayat natin ang publiko na agad ireport ang anumang kahina-hinalang aktibidad sa kanilang lugar,” he added.
The PNP said the operation forms part of its Focused Agenda on Enhanced Managing Police Operations and supports the Marcos administration’s efforts to promote public safety and lawful business practices.
Police urged the public to report suspicious fuel trading activities in their areas as authorities continue their campaign against unauthorized petroleum operations.