Operatives of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) seized around P19 million worth of gas-refilling equipment in a raid in Caloocan City over the weekend.
CIDG director Maj. Gen. Leo Francisco said the operation was based on the search warrant issued by a Makati court over the possible violation of the Republic Act 8293 (Intellectual Property Code Act) in Barangay 163 in Sta. Quiteria.
He said the search warrant was for the unauthorized sale and distribution of petroleum products.
“While the owners were not present during the police operation, nine) individuals were apprehended. These individuals were found performing various roles including human resources personnel, office staff, refillers and drivers,” said Francisco.
He said the suspects were arrested after they yielded more than 140 LPG cylinder tanks (both filled and empty), including brands like Solane, Petron and Fiesta.
In addition, Francisco said several large and small filling scales with corresponding nozzles and hoses used for illegal refilling were confiscated, along with two trucks being sued for the transportation of illegally refilled LPG cylinders.
He said the operation was conducted peacefully and in an orderly manner with the presence of local officials, representatives from Solane and Petron Gas Corporation, as well as media representatives.