Photo courtesy of PNP.
Authorities arrested a suspect and seized over Php 11 million worth of petroleum products in an anti-illegal fuel operation in Lemery, Batangas on the evening of May 1, 2026.
The Criminal Investigation and Detection Group in Batangas led the operation around 9:45 p.m. in Purok 3, Mataas na Bayan, with support from provincial intelligence units and local police forces.
A 36-year-old Filipino suspect was taken into custody during the operation, authorities said.
Recovered items included petroleum products, a tanker truck, and equipment allegedly used in the illegal activity, with an estimated value exceeding Php 11 million.
All seized items, along with the suspect, were brought to the CIDG Batangas field office for documentation and legal processing.
The Philippine National Police said the operation was part of its ongoing drive against illegal fuel trading practices affecting public safety and economic activity.
PNP Chief Police General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. commended the operating units, saying coordinated field operations against illegal activities would continue.
He said enforcement efforts would remain sustained, stressing that the police would continue acting “in a lawful and professional manner” in addressing illegal trade.