Manila: The Philippine National Police (PNP) is ramping up its monitoring and enforcement efforts against fuel pilferage and illegal fuel storage and distribution hubs. This move comes as part of a broader initiative to curb activities that pose significant risks to communities, as emphasized by PNP chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.

According to Philippines News Agency, the PNP's heightened focus on this issue follows the discovery of an unauthorized diesel stockpile within a residential compound in Quezon City. Gen. Nartatez has issued a stern warning, stating, "We want to send a strong message that those who would dare to ignore our warning on this matter will be dealt with the full force of the law."

In response to this incident, Nartatez has instructed the National Capital Region Police Office to undertake a comprehensive investigation. He has also directed all regional offices to enhance their monitoring and intelligence-gathering activities. The initiative is supported by National Support Units, including the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group, which are tasked with assisting in the campaign.

During the Quezon City operation, police discovered drums of diesel stored illegally within a residential area. Local residents had reported suspicious activities, such as the transfer of unmarked fuel from large tankers into smaller containers. Investigators are currently working to determine the duration the stockpile had been operational and whether similar illegal depots exist in other regions.

Nartatez has also indicated ongoing coordination with the Department of Energy (DOE) to ensure a thorough case build-up against those implicated in these illegal operations.