NBI warns illegal LPG refillers in VisMin

The National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) recently issued a stern warning against traders in Visayas and Mindanao suspected of being involved in the illegal refilling of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders amid reports of the proliferation of the racket in these regions.

The NBI said it is poised to focus its nationwide crackdown in the illegal LPG business in Visayas and Mindanao in the face of mounting complaints from communities and local governments. Residents of these regions expressed fear that their neighborhoods are being exposed to serious risks by illegal LPG refillers.

The NBI also said it received reports that illegal LPG outlets are selling underfilled cylinders. These traders say their products are cheaper alternatives but are actually underweight, thus cheating consumers, the NBI said.

Earlier, the NBI vowed to relentlessly pursue complaints filed before the Department of Justice (DOJ) against several firms suspected of engaging in the business of illegal refilling of LPG cylinders.

Complaints have been filed before the DOJ against Omni Gas Corp., Republic Gas Corp., Northland Gas Corp. and Romars International Gases Corp.

The cases were filed at the DOJ following raids by NBI in a nationwide crackdown that has netted over P1 million worth of confiscated LPG cylinders and refilling equipment.

The Department of Energy has also filed charges against several establishments suspected of involvement in the illegal trade. Among them are Capitol Allied Trading, Excel Gas Corp., Lukban Gas, Inc., Eslee Trading and Gutierrez Gas Center.