3 PUMP ATTENDANTS, CASHIER NABBED IN PAMPANGA ILLEGAL FUEL TRADE

BY KEVIN GALANG

CAMP OLIVAS, City of San Fernando, Pampanga – Three pump attendants and a cashier were arrested by the police while some P879,000 worth of petroleum products was seized in a buy-bust operation against illegal sale of fuel in Magalang, Pampanga. 

The Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) said the operation was conducted in Bgy. San Roque and led by the Regional Special Operations Group of the Regional Intelligence Division 3 (RSOG-RID3) under Lt. Col. Lory Tarrazona.

Personnel of the Magalang Municipal Police Station and the Pampanga Police Provincial Office also assisted in the conducting the sting.

Police said the suspects were caught selling petroleum products without the necessary authorization from the Department of Energy (DOE).

The establishment’s owner was not present during the operation.

Confiscated were two fuel dispensers containing an estimated 10,000 liters of petroleum products valued at around P879,000.

Also seized were sales invoices, the P1,000 marked money used in the test-buy operation, and P25,507 in cash believed to be proceeds from fuel sales.

The suspects were charged with violations of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree 1865.

PRO3 director Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez said the operation was part of the Philippine National Police’s continuing campaign against illegal commercial activities that could threaten consumer protection and public safety.

“Fuel is an essential commodity that affects the daily lives of our people. Businesses engaged in its sale and distribution must comply with the law and applicable safety standards,” Mendez said.

The official said the operation aimed not only to hold violators accountable but also to protect consumers and prevent unlawful practices that could put communities at risk.