The Philippine National Police-Highway Patrol Group (PNP-HPG) recovered and impounded three vehicles in separate operations across Nueva Vizcaya, Camarines Sur, and La Union as authorities intensified efforts against carnapping and fraudulent vehicle transactions.
PNP-HPG Acting Director Police Brig. Gen. Rommel Batangan said the operations formed part of a broader crackdown on illegal vehicle schemes, including questionable “pasalo” and “labas-casa” arrangements.
In Solano, Nueva Vizcaya, Highway Patrol operatives recovered a Nissan Terra allegedly linked to a “pasalo” scheme, in which vehicle ownership or loan obligations are informally transferred without proper documentation. Authorities said the vehicle was voluntarily surrendered for investigation.
In Naga City, Camarines Sur, personnel impounded a Mitsubishi Strada allegedly connected to a “labas-casa” scheme. Initial verification showed the vehicle had a previous police blotter entry and was reportedly linked to a writ of replevin case.
Meanwhile, in Aringay, La Union, HPG personnel impounded a BMW X5 SUV during an anti-carnapping and traffic enforcement operation after the driver allegedly failed to present a license and vehicle documents. Authorities later confirmed the SUV was not listed as stolen.
The recovered vehicles are now under police custody for documentation and further investigation.
Batangan urged the public to remain cautious when entering vehicle transactions, especially those involving incomplete documents or questionable ownership arrangements.
“We encourage the public to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious motor vehicle activities and questionable transactions to authorities,” he said.
The PNP-HPG said it will continue conducting verification and anti-carnapping operations to prevent the use and transfer of illegally obtained vehicles.