Camp BGen Rafael T Crame, Quezon City – An intelligence-driven law enforcement operations was conducted by joint personnel of Team 4A, Luzon Field Unit – Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group (LFU-IMEG), as the Lead Unit, resulted in the arrest of twelve (12) individuals and the seizure of large quantities of suspected illegal fuel and tanker trucks following the implementation of a Search Warrant at an unnamed warehouse in Barangay Sta. Catalina Sur, Candelaria, Quezon, at around 11:53 PM on January 27, 2026,(Tuesday) for alleged involvement in illegal fuel-related activities locally known as “PAIHI.”

The operation was carried out with the support of elements of the Special Action Force, and assisted by the Candelaria Municipal Police Station, Quezon Police Provincial Office, PRO 4A, which served as the territorial unit to ensure proper coordination and security throughout the conduct of the operation.

Authorities implemented the Search Warrant at a warehouse located along San Juan–Candelaria Road, situated between Lucky Seven Pares and Lomi House and JVM Motorcycle Parts, where evidence of alleged illegal fuel storage and handling activities, commonly referred to as “PAIHI,” was discovered. As a result of the search, 12 individuals were arrested for violation of Presidential Decree No. 1865 in relation to Republic Act No. 8479 (An Act Deregulating the Downstream Oil Industry and for Other Purposes).

During the search, Operatives recovered several Intermediate Bulk Containers (IBCs) containing suspected gasoline and methanol used for storage, as well as four tanker trucks of various colors and plate numbers. One of the tankers was reportedly utilized as a storage facility, while the others were used for the transport of fuel and chemical substances. The total estimated value of the recovered pieces of evidence amounted to approximately PhP5,432,000.00. All recovered items were placed under proper custody and subjected to inventory and documentation in accordance with established procedures.

The implementation of the Search Warrant was conducted in the presence of duly designated barangay officials of Barangay Sta. Catalina Sur, Candelaria, Quezon, to ensure transparency and compliance with legal requirements.

The operation was the result of extensive intelligence build-ups, validation, and sustained surveillance conducted over an extended period, following information that illegal fuel-related activities were allegedly being operated by an active police officer with the rank of Police Master Sergeant (PMSg), in coordination with a retired Non-Uniformed Personnel (NUP), together with other civilian associates, in parts of Batangas and Quezon. Continued intelligence monitoring indicated the persistence of the illegal activity, prompting renewed operational planning and coordination.

Based on validated reports, the matter was elevated through appropriate channels, leading to the approval of the operations and the issuance of a Search Warrant on January 20, 2026, by the Regional Trial Court, Branch 53, 4th Judicial Region, Lucena City, authorizing the search of the subject warehouse in Barangay Sta. Catalina Sur, Candelaria, Quezon.

All arrested suspects were properly apprised of their constitutional rights in a language they understood, with the use of an Alternative Recording Device (ARD), and were subsequently brought to Candelaria MPS, Quezon PPO, PRO 4A for documentation, processing, and temporary detention, pending the filing of appropriate charges.

In a statement, PBGEN BONARD D BRITON, Director, IMEG, emphasized that the operation reflects the organization’s firm position against illegal activities, particularly those involving members or former personnel of the PNP.

“This intelligence-driven operation sends a clear message that no one is above the law. The Integrity Monitoring and Enforcement Group will continue to pursue and dismantle illegal enterprises, especially those that undermine public trust in the Philippine National Police. We remain committed to accountability, integrity, discipline, and the rule of law, regardless of rank or affiliation,” IMEG Director said.

This operation highlights the strong inter-agency coordination and the continuing commitment of IMEG to safeguard public interest, uphold organizational integrity, and ensure that violations of law are addressed decisively and in accordance with due process.