8 ARRESTED FOR ILLEGAL PETROLEUM SALE IN TARLAC

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Operatives on Thursday arrested in an entrapment operation eight individuals  involve in alleged unauthorized trading and distribution of petroleum products in Victoria, Tarlac. 

Members of the Regional Special Operations Group-Regional Intelligence Division 3 (RSOG-RID3), with the help of the Victoria Municipal Police Station under the supervision of Lt. Col. Lory Tarrazona, chief of the Regional Intelligence Division, conducted the sting in Bgy. Sta. Catalina Maluid in Victoria.

Police launched the operation after receiving information about the alleged unauthorized sale of petroleum products in the area.

Two suspects were initially arrested for allegedly selling fuel without the required government authority or regulatory compliance.

During the entrapment, authorities observed the transfer of petroleum products between two tanker trucks with indicated capacities of 20,000 liters and 60,000 liters. 

The transaction was reportedly valued at P1,002,300.

Six other individuals allegedly involved in the illegal  activity were subsequently arrested.

Police secured the two tanker trucks, fuel dispensers, sales invoices, marked money and reported sales proceeds for documentation and further investigation.

Charges for alleged violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865 were filed against the suspects.

According to Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) director Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez, the operation was part of the regional police office’s continuing efforts to protect communities and legitimate businesses from unauthorized petroleum activities.

“Petroleum products require proper handling and regulation because unauthorized activities can pose risks to consumers and nearby communities. We will continue to act on verified information and enforce the law through proper and coordinated police operations,” Mendez said.

He said the operation also supports the implementation of the PNP Focused Agenda of PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., which emphasizes timely, intelligence-led and responsible police action, proper resource management and stronger cooperation with communities.

The official urged the public to report suspicious activities involving the unauthorized sale, transfer or storage of petroleum products, saying timely information could help authorities respond before such activities pose greater risks to public safety.