In a joint operation conducted by the Bureau of Customs (BOC) and the 701st Infantry Brigade on October 22, 2024, five (5) lorries carrying approximately 238,000 liters of unmarked diesel were intercepted in Tarragona, Davao Oriental.

Based on the intelligence information from the 10th Infantry Division, fuel suspected to be unmarked was being smuggled in Tarragona, Davao Oriental. Several tanker trucks were observed in the area, raising suspicion of smuggling activities.

A report disclosed that a vessel, identified as Aquaman 3, moved offshore following the transfer of fuel into lorry trucks headed toward Mati.

Checkpoints were immediately set up by the Enforcement and Security Service (ESS) of the BOC, which led to the interception of five (5) lorries carrying unmarked smuggled fuel.

Initial test was conducted,however, the testing was halted with the arrival of armed civilians claiming to be PNP intelligence agents, leading the team to proceed to Banaybanay under military escort.

Initial and confirmatory tests of all samples taken from the five (5) lorries yielded results of 0% Relative Marker Level which warranted the seizure and detention of the subject lorries and unmarked fuel.

Commissioner Bienvenido Y. Rubio remarked, “The BOC remains resolute in its commitment in working alongside partner law enforcement agencies to curtail the illegal trade of petroleum products and strengthen maritime security measures. The BOC’s enforcement and coordination efforts highlight its unwavering dedication in ensuring safety and security of our maritime domain as well as protecting the interests of reputable businesses in the country.”

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