In a significant crackdown on environmental crime, authorities have seized approximately ₱19.5 million worth of hazardous materials and arrested 11 Chinese nationals during a targeted raid on an alleged illegal battery recycling facility. The operation took place inside a warehouse located in Barangay Dela Paz, San Simon town, marking a major enforcement action against illegal hazardous waste handling.
Details of the Raid and Seizure
Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Regional Field Unit 3, in collaboration with local police forces, executed the raid at a warehouse within Global Aseana Business Park 1. The operation was conducted under the authority of a search warrant issued for violations of Section 13(a) of Republic Act No. 6969, commonly known as the Toxic Substances and Hazardous and Nuclear Waste Control Act of 1990.
According to official reports, the facility was allegedly engaged in the recycling of old and used automotive batteries to extract lead. This process is known to pose significant risks to public health and the environment due to the toxic nature of lead and other hazardous substances involved.
Confiscated Materials and Estimated Value
During the operation, law enforcement personnel confiscated a wide array of equipment and materials used in the illegal recycling process. The seized items included:
- Two battery crusher machines
- Five Heli forklifts
- A furnace
- Junked car batteries
- E-bike batteries
- Coal
- Metal molds
- Approximately 8,950 kilograms of finished lead products
The total estimated value of the confiscated materials reached ₱19,514,100, underscoring the scale of the illegal operation.
Government Commitment to Environmental Regulation
Major General Robert Morico II, CIDG Director, emphasized that this operation is a key component of the government's ongoing efforts to regulate and prevent the illegal handling, processing, and disposal of hazardous substances. He highlighted the importance of such enforcement actions in protecting community health and environmental integrity.
Authorities have issued a public appeal, urging citizens to report any suspicious or illegal activities involving hazardous materials in their local communities. This call to action aims to foster greater community involvement in combating environmental crimes and ensuring compliance with safety regulations.
