ZAMBOANGA CITY — Authorities arrested four individuals and confiscated nearly P1.5 million worth of alleged illegally traded petroleum products during a late-night law enforcement operation in Barangay Baliwasan, Zamboanga City, highlighting the government’s intensified campaign against illegal fuel trading.
The operation was conducted at around 11:45 p.m. on June 2, 2026, by the Special Operations Team of the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group Regional Field Unit 9 (CIDG RSOT-9) in coordination with Police Station 11 of the Zamboanga City Police Office.
The raid resulted in the arrest of four male suspects identified only by their aliases “Jay,” “Ran,” “Hael,” and “Mark.” The suspects, all of legal age and residents of Isabela City in Basilan and Indanan, Sulu, were allegedly caught engaging in the unauthorized trading and sale of petroleum products without the necessary license and authority from the Department of Energy (DOE).
Authorities also seized 700 containers of suspected illicit gasoline with an estimated market value of P1,497,600. In addition, two motorized boats locally known as “jungkong” were confiscated and are believed to have been used in the transport and distribution of the petroleum products.
According to a report submitted to CIDG Director, Robert AA Morico II, the suspects were apprehended during an operation targeting violations of Section 2 (a) of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865, which penalizes the illegal trading of petroleum products.
Morico underscored the importance of strict regulation in the petroleum industry, emphasizing that the unauthorized sale and distribution of fuel not only violate existing laws but also pose risks to public welfare, economic stability, and national security.
“The state protects public interest and national security by strengthening the regulation of petroleum products,” Morico said. “Under Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, it is unlawful to sell or distribute petroleum products for profit without the necessary license or authority. Presidential Decree 1865 was enacted to address unfair trade practices and ensure energy conservation.”
Illegal fuel trading has long been a concern in various parts of Mindanao, particularly in coastal communities where fuel smuggling and unauthorized distribution networks have thrived due to geographical challenges and porous maritime borders. Authorities warn that such activities not only deprive the government of revenue but may also compromise fuel quality standards and consumer safety.
The CIDG leadership commended Rosell DM Encarnacion, Regional Chief of CIDG Regional Field Unit 9, and the CIDG Special Operations Team 9 headed by Joseph N Severino for the successful operation.
Officials described the crackdown as part of the CIDG’s sustained efforts to dismantle illegal petroleum trading operations and disrupt networks engaged in profiteering activities that undermine government regulations.
“The successful operation underscores the CIDG’s unwavering commitment to eradicating illegal petroleum trading and other unlawful business activities,” the agency said.
The arrested suspects are now facing charges for violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865. The confiscated fuel products and motorized boats have been placed under government custody pending further investigation and court proceedings.
Meanwhile, the CIDG reiterated its appeal to the public to remain vigilant and actively assist law enforcement authorities by reporting any incidents of illegal trading, hoarding, or profiteering of petroleum products in their communities.
The agency assured the public that it remains steadfast in enforcing the law and pursuing individuals and groups involved in illegal activities nationwide, stressing that operations against illicit fuel trading will continue as part of broader efforts to protect consumers, ensure fair market practices, and safeguard the country’s energy resources.