Police raided an illegal fuel-siphoning operation in Malabon on Friday, arresting four suspects and seizing an estimated P17.22 million worth of diesel, tugboats and siphoning equipment.

Operatives from the Philippine National Police Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) targeted the unauthorized transport and sale of petroleum products in Barangay Concepcion.

The suspects were allegedly caught engaging in the “paihi” scheme, a local term for the illegal siphoning or theft of fuel from tankers or vessels.

Authorities confiscated approximately 105,000 liters of diesel and two tugboats used in the operation.

The raid was conducted in the presence of local village officials. Police said the four suspects were informed of their constitutional rights, and charges are being prepared for filing before the Office of the City Prosecutor.

PNP chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the raiding team, stating that the crackdown aligns with presidential directives to target economic offenses, protect legitimate businesses, and enforce the rule of law.

“Our message is simple: the law applies equally to everyone,” Nartatez said. “We will continue to intensify our operations against illegal activities while safeguarding the rights of everyone and maintaining public trust in our police force.”