MANILA — Police in Batangas have intercepted a tanker truck carrying millions worth of illegally obtained fuel, stopping what authorities described as an attempted distribution of pilfered petroleum products.
The operation, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG), resulted in the arrest of a 36-year-old driver in Barangay Mataas na Bayan, Lemery on Friday night.
CIDG agents, together with personnel from the Batangas Police Provincial Office and the Lemery Municipal Police Station, carried out the arrest at around 9:45 p.m., seizing a tanker truck, petroleum cargo, and other materials linked to the illegal trade. Authorities placed the value of the confiscated items at over PHP11 million.
Investigators said the fuel had been siphoned and was reportedly en route to Bacoor when intercepted.
The crackdown is part of the broader effort of the Philippine National Police to curb the illicit sale of fuel, a practice locally known as “paihi,” which poses risks to both public safety and the economy—especially during a period of heightened energy concerns.
PNP chief Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said the operation highlights the agency’s resolve to enforce regulations and ensure that business activities are conducted within the bounds of the law.
ia/xf
