The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) uncovered a large-scale oil smuggling operation at Subukin Port in San Juan, Batangas, resulting in the arrest of 26 individuals.
RH Edniel Parrosa's report states that the CIDG, in coordination with the Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), launched the operation aimed at targeting an alleged cigarette smuggling in the area.
Instead of uncovering illicit tobacco trade, the operatives stumbled upon 11 tanker trucks and a fishing vessel containing 200,000 litres of smuggled oil.
Reports revealed that the fishing vessel was repurposed into an illegal tanker, with an estimated value exceeding P12.2 million, including the fuel it contained.
Authorities quickly arrested 26 people in connection with the illegal operation, including two Chinese nationals.
The suspects will face charges for violating the illegal trading of petroleum products under Presidential Decree No. 1865.
CIDG Director PBGen. Nicolas Torre III stated that the operation is part of the PNP's stricter crackdown on individuals involved in economic sabotage, in accordance with the orders of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and PNP Chief PGen. Rommel Francisco Marbil.
