BACOLOD CITY - The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI)-Bacolod arrested a senior citizen in a raid against the illegal refilling of butane canisters in his home in Barangay Estefania here on Tuesday, August 18.

In a media interview, NBI-Bacolod executive officer William De Arca Jr., said they applied a search warrant, following reports from various companies about the alleged illegal refilling of liquid petroleum gas (LPG) in butane canisters.

De Arca said that upon arrival at the suspect's house, several crates of canisters of different brands, as well as devices used for refilling were discovered and seized.

He added that there was a specific room in the house where refilling was conducted.

De Arca noted that there was no license or permit for the suspect to operate, as refilling of these canisters should be done by the authorized outlet and undergo a proper procedure.

De Arca said they also applied another search warrant for loose firearms and ammunition, and recovered a .45 caliber pistol with a magazine and eight ammunition. The firearm was subjected to ballistic examination, he added.

Upon checking the background of the suspect, the NBI found out that he had previous offenses committed against abuses on children and women, as well as grave threat.

He said the suspect will be facing charges for violation of Republic Act 11592 or the LPG Industry Regulation Act, while companies may file a separate case upon their assessment.

De Arca said that using these canisters was easy and cheaper, but he reminded the public to always buy butane canisters from authorized stores and legit distributors for their own safety.

He also warned those who continue to engage in illegal refilling business to stop as this will affect the community's safety.

This follows the operation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Maritime Group against illegal refilling of butane canisters in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental early this month.