In a joint operation conducted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the 701st Infantry Division on October 22, 2024, five (5) lorries carrying approximately 238,000 liters of unmarked diesel were intercepted in Tarragona, Davao Oriental.
Based on intelligence from the 10th Infantry Division, fuel suspected to be unmarked was being smuggled into Tarragona, Davao Oriental. Several tanker trucks were observed in the area, raising suspicion of smuggling activities.
A report disclosed that a vessel, identified as Aquaman 3, moved offshore following fuel transfer into lorry trucks headed toward Mati.
The BOC’s Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) immediately set up checkpoints, which led to the interception of five (5) lorries carrying unmarked smuggled fuel.
The initial test was conducted. However, the testing was halted with the arrival of armed civilians claiming to be PNP intelligence agents, leading the team to proceed to Banaybanay under military escort.
Initial and confirmatory tests of all samples taken from the five (5) lorries yielded 0% Relative Marker Level results, which warranted the seizure and detention of the subject lorries and unmarked fuel.
Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio remarked, “The BOC remains resolute in its commitment to working alongside partner law enforcement agencies to curtail the illegal trade of petroleum products and strengthen maritime security measures. The BOC’s enforcement and coordination efforts highlight its unwavering dedication to ensuring the safety and security of our maritime domain and protecting the interests of reputable businesses in the country.”