By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan
MANILA – The Philippine National Police (PNP) has launched a deeper investigation to identify the mastermind behind the alleged illegal trade of PHP9.75 million worth of diesel uncovered during an operation at the Navotas Fish Port Complex.
“We are currently conducting a thorough investigation to identify the ‘big fish’ behind this operation,” PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said in a statement Wednesday.
“Hindi lang ‘yung mga nasa baba ang ating tutugisin (We’ll focus not only at those at the bottom). We must close in on the mastermind and arrest them,” he added.
Nine men were arrested and some 65,000 liters of diesel valued at PHP9.75 million were seized in a noontime raid on Tuesday. Authorities said the operation stemmed from a tip provided by a concerned citizen who reported a suspected illegal fuel transfer activity in the area.
Police said the suspects were caught in the act of transferring fuel but failed to present documents authorizing the transport and storage of petroleum products.
Nartatez described the operation as a significant blow to organized illegal fuel activities, particularly the so-called “paihi” scheme that has long persisted in port areas.
The crackdown comes amid rising fuel prices linked to ongoing tensions in the Middle East.
“This operation proves our resolve: hindi tayo titigil hangga’t hindi napuputol ang kanilang (We will not stop until we sever their) supply chain. We are hitting them where it hurts their pockets,” he said.
Meanwhile, PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tuaño, in a press briefing at Camp Crame, said 393 gas stations have temporarily closed due to supply constraints, as authorities monitor the downstream impact of the oil supply crunch.
He also reported 15 incidents of fuel hoarding and profiteering nationwide, with three cases in the National Capital Region, five in Bicol Region, four in Eastern Visayas, two in Central Luzon, and one in Davao Region. A total of 34 individuals are now facing charges in connection with these cases.
The Department of Energy has sought the assistance of the PNP to intensify efforts against fuel hoarding and profiteering as supply issues persist. (PNA)
