Two arrested, P3.5-M worth of fuel seized in Marinduque illegal fuel operation

Two individuals were arrested and approximately P3.538 million worth of petroleum products and transport equipment were seized during a joint police operation in Barangay Bachao Ibaba, Gasan, Marinduque on 8 September.

The operation was carried out by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Marinduque Provincial Field Unit, led by PLT Reynaldo P. Dizon, Officer-in-Charge, in coordination with the Gasan Municipal Police Station and various intelligence and maritime units.

Police said the suspects were caught allegedly distributing and dispensing petroleum products using a tanker without the required authority and permit from the Department of Energy (DOE).

The suspects are facing possible charges for violation of Section 2(a) in relation to Section 3(h) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865, which regulates certain unlawful activities involving petroleum products.

Seized during the operation were around 19,800 liters of petroleum products, consisting of 12,000 liters of premium gasoline, 6,000 liters of diesel, and 1,800 liters of unleaded gasoline, with an estimated market value of P1.734 million.

Authorities also confiscated a blue-and-white ten-wheeler tank lorry valued at approximately P1.804 million, a black suction hose, the vehicle's Official Receipt and Certificate of Registration, and a delivery receipt.

The total estimated value of the seized petroleum products and transport equipment was placed at approximately P3.538 million.

The arrested suspects and confiscated evidence were brought to the CIDG Regional Field Unit 4B in Marinduque for proper disposition and the filing of appropriate charges.

PRO MIMAROPA Regional Director PBGEN Christopher R. Dela Cruz commended the personnel involved, stressing the importance of intelligence-driven operations and coordination among police units in addressing violations involving regulated commodities.

Dela Cruz said the operation underscored the police's efforts to enforce special laws while preventing unlawful activities that could affect legitimate commerce and public interest.

Authorities said the operation forms part of the continuing efforts of PRO MIMAROPA and CIDG to curb illegal activities involving regulated petroleum products through coordinated law enforcement operations.