CAMP OLIVAS, Pampanga — Eight individuals were arrested by the Police Regional Office 3 (PRO3) during an entrapment operation targeting the alleged unauthorized sale and distribution of petroleum products at a gasoline station in Barangay Sta. Catalina Maluid, Victoria, Tarlac on October 1, 2026.

Personnel of the Regional Special Operations Group-Regional Intelligence Division 3 (RSOG-RID3), with assistance from the Victoria Municipal Police Station (MPS), conducted the operation following information regarding the reported unauthorized trading of petroleum products.

Police initially arrested two individuals who were allegedly engaged in selling fuel without the required authority or regulatory compliance.

During the operation, authorities also observed the transfer of petroleum products between two tanker trucks with indicated capacities of 20,000 liters and 60,000 liters, with the petroleum products reportedly valued at PHP 1,002,300.

Six other individuals allegedly involved in the activity were subsequently arrested. Police secured the two tanker trucks, fuel dispensers, sales invoices, marked money, and reported sales proceeds for documentation and further investigation.

Appropriate charges for alleged violation of Batas Pambansa Blg. 33, as amended by Presidential Decree No. 1865, are being prepared against the arrested individuals.

B.P. Blg. 33, as amended, penalizes illegal trading in petroleum products, including the sale or distribution of petroleum products for profit without the required government license or authority.

PRO3 Director Police Brig. Gen. Jess B. Mendez said the operation demonstrates the regional police office’s continuing efforts to address unauthorized petroleum activities and protect consumers and legitimate businesses.

“Petroleum products require proper handling and regulation because unauthorized activities can pose risks to consumers and nearby communities. We will continue to act on verified information and enforce the law through proper and coordinated police operations,” Mendez said.

The operation is also part of the continuing implementation of the Philippine National Police (PNP) Focused Agenda, which emphasizes timely, intelligence-led, and responsible police operations, as well as stronger cooperation with communities.

Mendez encouraged the public to report suspicious activities involving the unauthorized sale, transfer, or storage of petroleum products, noting that timely information can help authorities respond to potential threats to public safety. (Jason de Asis)