PNP CIDG busts P13M illegal oil smuggling operation in Batangas

The Philippine National Police - Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP CIDG) arrested 26 individuals, including two Chinese nationals, and confiscated oil products worth P13 million early Tuesday morning in San Juan, Batangas.

Law enforcers seized six straight truck tankers, four trailer trucks, one straight truck, a fishing vessel converted into a tanker carrying 200,000 liters of petroleum valued at around P60 per liter, and the Motor Tanker Feliza.

Customs Intelligence and Investigation Service Director Verne Enciso reported that fuel sampling and testing revealed zero percent fuel marking, indicating illegal trade.

The operation was carried out by the CIDG's Batangas provincial unit, Calabarzon regional unit, San Juan Municipal Police Station, Bureau of Customs operatives, and Philippine Coast Guard based on a request from the Bureau of Customs to crack down on suspected smuggling operations at the port.

Those arrested will be charged with violating Section 2(a) of Presidential Decree No. 1865 for illegal trade of petroleum products and other related laws, including the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act.

Deputy Commissioner Juvymax Uy emphasized the importance of ensuring consumers have access to legal and tested products, including fuel.