Motor tanker allegedly linked to fuel smuggling apprehended at Batangas port — PNP-MG

A motor tanker suspected to be involved in fuel smuggling was apprehended at the Batangas International Port on Wednesday, the Philippine National PNP - Maritime Group (PNP-MG) said.

The PNP-MG said a representative from Bureau of Customs (BOC) asked Batangas Maritime Police Station (MARPSTA) to help in probing the alleged fuel smuggling activities involving "MT Cassandra" after authorities received intelligence reports.

“Responding without delay, the operatives of Batangas MARPSTA were deployed to the port to provide security and aid customs personnel in securing the scene,” the PNP-MG said in a statement.

“Upon arrival, they discovered a vessel, identified as "MT Cassandra", docked alongside four tanker lorries. Large hoses connected the vessel to the lorries, suggesting the illegal transfer of fuel was already in progress,” it added.

According to the PNP-MG, the 12 crew members on board the vessel are suspected to be involved in fuel smuggling activity.

“The seized vessel, the tanker lorries, and the fuel products of 1.8 million liters with estimated market value of P90 million are now under the custody of Customs authorities for inventory and further legal action,” it said.

“The investigation is ongoing, and charges will be filed against those responsible for this illicit operation,” it added.—Joviland Rita/AOL, GMA Integrated News