THE NATIONAL Bureau of Investigation SouthEastern Mindanao Regional Office (NBI) XI arrested four suspects for allegedly siphoning crude oil in Calinan following an operation conducted on Tuesday, July 8, 2025.
According to NBI XI spokesperson Elias Leaño, each gallon of crude oil is estimated to be worth around P600, and each drum can hold approximately six to seven gallons.
“Agents of this bureau had conducted the interdiction operation that resulted in the arrest of four individuals who are directly engaging in illegal trading of petroleum products. So, as a result, they will be charged for violation of the Presidential Decree of 1865,” he said.
In total, five large drums of crude oil were seized during the operation, with an estimated value of more or less P21,000. He also said that the crude oil was being illegally sold to gasoline stations at a lower price.
Currently, the NBI is also investigating those behind this illegal activity, including the gasoline stations that were purchasing the siphoned crude oil.
The arrested individuals will face charges for violating Presidential Decree 1865, which prohibits the illegal siphoning, selling, and possession of petroleum and its products.
