CAMP OLIVAS,City of San Fernando, Pampanga — Five individuals were arrested in an operation against illegal LPG activities in Mariveles, Bataan on Saturday (April 24), following reports of unauthorized distribution of tampered and counterfeit LPG cylinders.
The operation was carried out by joint elements of RSOG-RID3, CIDG Bataan PFU, and Mariveles MPS after a complaint from a brand protector regarding the alleged sale of fake LPG products at a gas sales center in Brgy. Alasasin.
Acting on the report, operatives conducted a buy-bust operation where a poseur buyer successfully purchased an LPG cylinder later found to be tampered and bearing a counterfeit seal. This led to the immediate arrest of the suspects and the inspection of the premises.
Authorities then uncovered an ongoing refilling and alteration activity involving LPG cylinders. Recovered from the site were hundreds of cylinders of different sizes, a delivery truck loaded with tampered containers, refilling equipment, and materials used for resealing and repainting.
The total estimated value of the seized items reached P4.5 million.
Charges for violation of the Revised Penal Code, Republic Act 623, and Batas Pambansa Blg. 33 are being prepared against the arrested individuals.
PRO3 Director, P/Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez, underscored the seriousness of the offense, stressing that illegal LPG operations pose a direct threat to public safety.
“Hindi ito simpleng iligal na negosyo. Delikado ito. Kapag tampered ang LPG, puwedeng magdulot ng sunog o pagsabog—direktang banta sa buhay at ari-arian ng ating mga kababayan.”
He emphasized that the operation reflects PRO3’s continuing efforts to strengthen law enforcement and ensure community safety, in line with the Focused Agenda of PNP Chief, P/Gen. Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., particularly on enhanced police operations and protection of the public.
“We will sustain aggressive and intelligence-driven operations against these illegal practices. This is part of our commitment to keep communities safe and to hold accountable those who put lives at risk for profit.”
RD Mendez also called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious LPG-related activities.
“Mahalaga ang papel ng publiko. Sa tulong ng tamang impormasyon, mas mabilis nating mapipigilan ang ganitong uri ng operasyon.” (UnliNews Online)
