SEVEN crew members of a shipping vessel are in custody after being apprehended for allegedly stealing petroleum products, including diesel fuel, from their employer.
The incident occurred in Barangay San Isidro, Talisay City, around noon on Wednesday, August 20, 2025.
The arrested individuals include key officers of the ship: a 57-year-old chief mate from Toledo City, Cebu; a 46-year-old third engineer from Marikina City; and a 59-year-old chief engineer from Caloocan City.
Two oilers, aged 24 and 32, from Bacolod City and Cebu City, respectively, were also taken into custody. Rounding out the group are the 67-year-old ship captain from Iloilo City and a 35-year-old third mate from Siquijor.
According to the Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG)-7, the arrests were made after a representative from the shipping company’s HR department reported the crew members were caught in the act of siphoning fuel. CIDG-7 operatives responded swiftly and arrested the suspects, who are now being held at the CIDG-7 detention facility while authorities prepare to file charges.
