Under the leadership of Police General Jose Melencio C. Nartatez Jr., Chief of the Philippine National Police (PNP), police operatives in Eastern Visayas disrupted an alleged unauthorized diesel distribution activity in Palo, Leyte, resulting in the arrest of six individuals on October 17, 2026.
Personnel of the Regional Special Operations Unit 8, in close coordination with the Palo Municipal Police Station and the Bureau of Fire Protection, conducted the operation in Barangay Pawing after receiving information regarding the alleged sale and distribution of diesel without the required authority.
During the operation, police arrested six individuals and recovered an electric pump with a hose, 10 plastic containers, six of which contained diesel while the remaining four were empty, and Php15,500 in cash believed to be connected to the activity.
The PNP Chief said the operation shows how timely information and coordination among law enforcement units can help address activities that may affect legitimate trade and public safety.
“Ang ganitong gawain, kapag pinabayaan, puwedeng makaapekto hindi lang sa mga lehitimong nagnenegosyo kundi pati sa safety ng mga tao. Kaya kapag may impormasyon tungkol sa ganitong aktibidad, tinitingnan natin agad at kumikilos tayo kung may sapat na basehan. Dapat maayos at legal ang paghawak at pagbebenta ng fuel,” he said.
As of this writing, the six individuals remain in police custody for documentation and proper disposition. Appropriate charges are being prepared in connection with the alleged violations, subject to further investigation and determination by the proper authorities.
The operation forms part of the PNP’s continuing efforts to strengthen focused, intelligence-led, and coordinated police operations under its Focused Agenda, particularly Enhanced Managing Police Operations. Through sustained coordination with partner agencies and communities, the Nation’s Peacekeepers remain committed to delivering responsive and lawful police service to the Filipino people.
