Navotas: Nine individuals were arrested and about PHP9.75 million worth of diesel fuel were seized in a joint operation against illegal petroleum trading at the Navotas Fish Port Complex on Tuesday. Police personnel, in coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE), launched the operation following a tip on suspected illegal fuel distribution in the area.

According to Philippines News Agency, the Philippine National Police (PNP) said the suspects - Filipino males aged 21 to 57 working as drivers, helpers, and a vessel captain - were apprehended after failing to present the required documents. Authorities seized a fuel tanker carrying around 15,000 liters of diesel and a cargo vessel used as a makeshift depot containing an estimated 50,000 liters more. Fuel hoses and pumping equipment were also recovered.

In total, about 65,000 liters of diesel were confiscated, with an estimated market value of PHP9.75 million. The suspects are now under police custody and will face charges for violating laws on the illegal trading of petroleum products.