Illegal cross-refilling of LPG led to the arrest of eight suspects in Caloocan City, with authorities seizing P25 million worth of equipment and gas cylinders.
Eight men allegedly involved in the illegal cross-refilling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) were arrested in Caloocan City, according to the Philippine National Police – Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (PNP-CIDG) on Sunday.
In a statement, the PNP-CIDG reported that the suspects were apprehended on Friday through a search warrant, leading to the recovery of 38 empty cylinders, 42 filled cylinders, four vehicles, weighing scales, hoses, refilling pumps, a compressor, and a bullet tank, with an estimated total value of P25 million.
The suspects were charged with illegal cross-filling and unauthorized manufacturing, distribution, refilling, or selling of LPG cylinders bearing company trademarks without permission, which violates the LPG Industry Regulation Act.
The PNP-CIDG also confirmed that authorities are still pursuing five other suspects linked to the illegal operation.
The arrests occurred amid a P0.70 per kilogram price hike in LPG this February, following a price rollback last month.
Authorities continue to warn against these illegal activities, stressing the dangers they pose to public safety and the integrity of the LPG industry.