18 ship crew members nabbed for fuel theft

18 ship crew members nabbed for fuel theft
Neil Jayson Servallos - January 31, 2023 | https://www.philstar.com/nation/2023/01/31/2241376/18-ship-crew-members-...

MANILA, Philippines — The Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) arrested 18 crew members of four vessels for alleged fuel theft in the waters off Navotas over the weekend.

In an incident report, the PCG said coast guard personnel spotted cargo ship M/V Mirola 1 feeding diesel to three boats: Palawan Pirates 2022, Palawan Pirates 2023 and Palawan Patrick.

Upon inspection, the PCG confirmed that the crew members were involved in fuel pilferage.

“About 20,000 to 30,000 liters of diesel were transferred by M/V Mirola to the three vessels,” the PCG said.

The Coast Guard also found out that the boats were involved in fuel pilferage not only in the waters of Manila but also in Bataan and Batangas.

Charges of fuel theft will be filed against the suspects, the PCG said.