The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) arrested 10 suspects and seized an estimated P12 million worth of diesel in a major anti-illegal fuel operation in Navotas City.
The operation was carried out at around 9:00 pm on June 22, 2026 in Barangay Tanza 2 by CIDG National Capital Region Field Unit in coordination with the Northern Maritime Police Station of the Regional Maritime Unit–NCR.
Authorities said the suspects were caught in the act of engaging in a “paihi” operation—a scheme involving the illegal transfer of petroleum products from boats to trucks without the required permits from the Department of Energy (DOE).
Confiscated during the operation were two motorized boats containing about 80 drums of diesel, a fuel tanker, a Sinotruk Howo NX truck, and several containers holding additional diesel fuel. Police also recovered equipment allegedly used in the siphoning process, including a water pump and a 50-meter hose.
CIDG said the suspects—all adult males from Navotas and Bulacan—were allegedly caught in the act of transferring fuel from vessels to land vehicles in a clandestine setup, which authorities warned poses serious fire and explosion hazards due to the lack of safety controls.
The agency said the operation is part of a wider crackdown on illegal petroleum trading, in line with directives from Philippine National Police Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. to intensify enforcement against economic crimes involving fuel products.
CIDG Director PMGen. Robert Morico II reiterated that unauthorized trading of petroleum products is punishable under Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree 1865, which regulates petroleum distribution and penalizes illegal trade practices.
“These laws are in place to protect public interest and national security,” CIDG said, adding that illegal fuel operations undermine regulation and pose safety risks to communities.
CIDG also commended its NCR field unit and maritime police partners for the successful interdiction, noting the importance of sustained coordination in combating fuel-related smuggling and profiteering schemes.
The agency urged the public to report similar illegal activities, saying continued vigilance from communities is essential in stopping the unauthorized trade and distribution of petroleum products nationwide.