Photo courtesy of LPGMA

Pangasinan, June 18, 2024 – Three suspects and illegal items worth at least PHP 25 million were seized by law enforcement officials in Barangay Nilombot, Mapandan, Pangasinan on Tuesday, June 18, 2024.

Law enforcement officials carried out OPLAN LIGAS and OPLAN MEGASHOPPER at the Centurions LPG Refilling Station. The operation was conducted by a joint team from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) Pangasinan PFU SATT 2 in collaboration with the LPG Marketer’s Association Party-List (LPGMA) and the Mapandan Municipal Police Station.

The team implemented two search warrants issued by Executive Judge Mervin Jovito Sanchez Samadan of the Regional Trial Court in Dagupan City, Pangasinan. The owner is currently at large.

The operation was in response to a complaint by an authorized representative of LPGMA who reported that the establishment was involved in the illegal sale and distribution of REGASCO LPG cylinder tanks.

The station was also found to be using substandard and unqualified cylinders, posing serious risks to public safety due to potential fire hazards and explosions.

Authorities confiscated a wide range of items during the operation, including:

• LPG Tanker (Lorry Trucks)
• Unloading hoses (vapor and liquid)
• Valves and gas pump with induction motor
• Air compressor and weighing scales
• Filling machines and cylinder seals
• Various documents and cash
• Multiple LPG cylinder tanks (both filled and empty) of different brands

The suspects will be charged with violations of the Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines (RA 8293), the LPG Industry Regulation Act (RA 11592), and BP 33 as amended by PD 1865.

This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat illegal activities in the LPG industry and ensure the safety and protection of consumers.