Operatives from the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) in Mandaue City have apprehended a man allegedly engaged in the illegal sale of branded butane canisters in a recent entrapment operation.
Details of the Arrest and Seizure
The arrest took place at 8:02 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, along UN Avenue in Barangay Alang-Alang, Mandaue City. The suspect, identified only by the alias "Boy," is a 41-year-old resident of Gil Tudtud Street, Sitio Lahing-Lahing, Barangay Mabolo, Cebu City.
During the operation, CIDG agents confiscated a significant quantity of illegal butane products. The seized items included:
- 24 crates containing 12 butane canisters each.
- An additional 12 crates containing 24 butane canisters each bearing the Rufrance Butane brand.
The total estimated value of the confiscated products is approximately P130,000. This includes P80,000 worth of items from the Republic Gas Corporation (Regasco) and P50,000 worth from Rufrance.
Background and Police Operation
The arrest followed formal complaints filed with the CIDG by both Regasco and Cebu Rufrance Multigas Corporation. The companies reported the proliferation of illegal butane products falsely carrying their brand names.
According to the complainants, the suspect had no authorization from their companies to sell or refill their branded butane products. Acting on these complaints, the CIDG initiated surveillance on the suspect's activities, which confirmed the legitimacy of the companies' claims.
This verification led to the planning and execution of a successful entrapment operation. After his arrest, the suspect, alias Boy, was asked to present a permit from the Department of Energy (DOE) but failed to produce any, further confirming the illegal nature of his business.
Charges and Custody
The confiscated evidence has been turned over to the CIDG Regional Field Unit 7 for proper documentation and case buildup. The suspect is currently under police custody.
Authorities are now preparing to file charges against him for violations of:
- Section 3 of Republic Act 5700
- Section 168 of Republic Act 8293 (The Intellectual Property Code of the Philippines)
- Section 38, par. b(2) of Republic Act 11592 (The LPG Industry Regulation Act)
This operation highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement and legitimate industry players to curb the illegal trade of regulated gas products, which poses significant safety risks to the public.
