Major Bust: 13 Individuals Apprehended in Illegal Crude Oil Operation at Mandaue Wharf
In a significant crackdown on illicit petroleum activities, authorities have arrested 13 people and confiscated a substantial haul of crude oil in Mandaue City, Cebu. The operation, led by the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) - Mandaue City Field Unit, unfolded in the early hours of Tuesday, February 17, 2026, at Ouano Wharf in Barangay Looc.
Details of the Dawn Raid
Acting on a tip-off, CIDG agents swooped in at approximately 2:15 AM, disrupting an illegal discharge of crude oil from a vessel tanker docked at the wharf. The suspects were caught in the act of transferring the petroleum product into drums, a clear violation of energy regulations.
Among those detained are the ship's Chief Engineer, along with seven assistants including laborers, a driver, and four truck boys. All failed to produce any legal documentation or permits from the Department of Energy (DOE) required for the transport and sale of petroleum, underscoring the clandestine nature of their activities.
Seized Assets and Estimated Value
The raid resulted in the recovery of multiple items, highlighting the scale of the operation:
- 14 drums filled with crude oil
- 10 empty drums intended for further loading
- Two vehicles: a bongo and a six-wheeler elf truck
- The vessel tanker involved in the illegal discharge
Authorities estimate the total value of the confiscated crude oil, tanker, and vehicles to reach a staggering P20.5 million, marking a major financial blow to the smuggling ring.
Legal Ramifications and Next Steps
Due to the lack of proper permits, the suspects now face charges under Batas Pambansa 33, which prohibits the illegal sale, distribution, or possession for sale of petroleum products. This law carries severe penalties, including potential imprisonment and fines, reflecting the government's stringent stance against energy sector violations.
The 13 individuals are currently in the custody of CIDG-7 and are scheduled to be formally charged in court on February 18, 2026. This swift action demonstrates law enforcement's commitment to curbing illegal activities that undermine regulatory frameworks and economic stability.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges in monitoring petroleum distribution and the critical role of community reports in aiding enforcement efforts.
