Illegal fuel trade foiled in Tawi-Tawi; Two suspects nabbed

DAVAO CITY—Two suspects and their contraband were confiscated on Saturday, and an estimated 2,000 liters of suspected smuggled gasoline were found while being transported in the waters off Tugala, Sitangkai, Tawi. This resulted in the confiscation of approximately P130,000 worth of fuel.

Authorities intercepted an unmarked motorboat with defaced serial numbers, raising suspicions of its illegal use. The vessel, estimated to be worth PhP 200,000, was immediately seized.

The fuel transport was not documented, which violates the national trade and customs regulations.

Two individuals were arrested for violating Republic Act 10863, the Customs Modernization and Tariff Act (CMTA). They are currently in the custody of the Sitangkai MLET, where they will undergo proper documentation and legal processing.

The operation was carried out by the Sitangkai Maritime Law Enforcement Team (MLET), Tawi-Tawi Maritime Police Station (MARSPTA), and the Regional Maritime Unit BAR, in coordination with the Bureau of Customs (BOC).

The PNP Maritime Group and the Bureau of Customs urge the public to report any suspicious maritime activities to help in the continued fight against smuggling and economic crimes in Philippine waters.