NBI raids illegal butane refilling operation in Bacolod
By Glazyl M. Jopson
By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY — The National Bureau of Investigation-Bacolod arrested a senior citizen during a raid on an alleged illegal butane canister refilling operation at his home in Barangay Estefania here on Tuesday.
In a media interview, NBI-Bacolod Executive Officer William De Arca Jr. said the agency obtained a search warrant following reports from various companies about the alleged illegal refilling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) into butane canisters.
De Arca said that upon arriving at the suspect’s house, agents discovered and seized several crates of canisters of different brands, as well as devices allegedly used for refilling.
He added that there was a specific room in the house where the alleged refilling was conducted.
De Arca said the suspect had no license or permit to operate, noting that the refilling of LPG canisters must be conducted by authorized operators following proper procedures.
The Department of Energy regulates LPG industry participants, including refilling plants, under Republic Act 11592, or the LPG Industry Regulation Act, which requires applicable registrations and licenses to operate.
De Arca said the NBI also obtained another search warrant for an alleged unlicensed firearm and ammunition and recovered a .45-caliber pistol, a magazine, and eight rounds of ammunition.
He added that the firearm was submitted for ballistic examination.
A background check on the suspect also showed previous cases involving alleged abuse of women and children, as well as grave threats, according to the NBI.
De Arca said the suspect previously resided in Barangay 19 and relocated to Barangay Estefania during the COVID-19 pandemic.
He said the suspect will face charges for alleged violations of Republic Act 11592, or the LPG Industry Regulation Act, while the companies involved may file separate cases following their assessment.
De Arca said butane canisters are easy to use and cheaper, but he reminded the public to buy them only from authorized stores and legitimate distributors for safety.
He also warned those engaged in illegal refilling operations to stop, saying such activities could endanger the community.
The operation followed a raid by the police Maritime Group on an alleged illegal LPG refilling operation in Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental, earlier this month.
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