LEYTE, Philippines – Six individuals were arrested during an entrapment operation targeting alleged illegal petroleum trading in Barangay Pawing, Palo, Leyte, on October 17, 2026, the Police Regional Office 8 (PRO-8) reported.
The operation, conducted by the Regional Special Operations Unit 8 (RSOU-8) in coordination with the Palo Municipal Police Station and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), targeted individuals allegedly engaged in the unauthorized sale and distribution of diesel fuel.
Police identified the suspects through their aliases as “Chad,” 35, a driver; “Jan,” 24, a truck helper; “Vince,” 32, a truck helper; “James,” 22, a fourth-year criminology student; “Aries,” 29, a helper; and “Ray,” 19, also a helper.
Authorities said the suspects were allegedly caught selling diesel without the necessary licenses or permits.
Confiscated during the operation were an electric pump with a hose, 10 plastic containers, including six filled with diesel and four empty containers, and Php 15,500 in cash.
PRO-8 Regional Director Brig. Gen. Romano Cardiño emphasized the police force’s commitment to intensifying operations against illegal petroleum trading and ensuring accountability among violators.
“Patuloy naming paiigtingin ang aming mga hakbang sa pagpapatupad ng batas laban sa ilegal na kalakalan ng produktong petrolyo. Ang sinumang mapatunayang lumabag sa batas ay mananagot alinsunod sa itinakdang mga prosesong legal,” Cardiño said.
The six suspects were taken to the Palo Municipal Police Station for documentation and further investigation.
Police said charges involving alleged illegal petroleum trading, qualified theft, and violations of the Anti-Fencing Law are being prepared against the suspects.
Source: Police Regional Office 8
