PCG nabs 18 ship crews for diesel theft off Navotas Fish Port

ELEMENTS of Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) on Monday, January 30, 2023, announced the arrest of 18 crews after they intercepted 3 boats stealing diesel from a vessel at the Navotas Fish Port two days earlier, January 28, 2023.

Reports from the PCG said that its team was conducting patrol when they caught five crew of cargo vessel MV/MIROLA 1 transferring diesel to three smaller boats in the waters off the Navotas Fish Port.

The 5 ship crews distributed fuel, estimated at 20,000-30,000 liters of diesel to 13 crews of three small vessels namely Palawan Pirates 2022, Palawan Pirates 2023, and Palawan Patrick.

Upon further investigation, the PCG also found out that the smaller boats were previously involved in fuel pilferage in Manila, Bataan and Batangas. They also do not have proper documents.

The two vessels involved in the theft, together with the 18 crews, were brought to Coast Guard Sub-Station in Navotas for filing of appropriate charges and proper disposition.

Meanwhile, the PCG also announced the rescue on Sunday, January 29, 2023, of 41 passengers and the 5 crews of the motor banca they were riding in after it nearly sunk off the coast of Caboang Bay, Balbac, Palawan.

Reports from the PCG said the motor banca, ‘MB Jatropha’ encountered strong waves that damaged the vessel’s starboard hull. The vessel was cruising along the vicinity of Bgy. Salang on its way to Bgy. Buliluyan, Bataraza town, the report added.

The PCG said both passengers and crews were safely brought to Balabac proper in good physical condition.