Quezon city: The Philippine National Police (PNP) has ordered the strict enforcement of a 'three-strike' policy for police station commanders as it intensifies its crackdown on fuel-related crimes following a series of gas-and-run incidents. PNP spokesperson Brig. Gen. Randulf Tua±o announced the directive after the third such case was recorded along Mindanao Avenue in Barangay Bahay Toro, Quezon City.

According to Philippines News Agency, Tua±o emphasized that the latest incident was an isolated case, although nearly 80 suspects have been arrested in connection with similar incidents nationwide. 'Umaabot sa kulang-kulang 80 ang ating mga naaresto kaugnay ng mga kasong nasabi natin pero ito sa Quezon City ito ay pangatlo, at nationwide pang-apat sapagkat meron nangyari sa Visayas,' he stated, indicating that this was the third incident in Quezon City and the fourth nationwide, with a previous occurrence in the Visayas region.

The latest incident, captured on CCTV at approximately 3:16 a.m. on May 3, involved an unidentified man driving a blue sedan who fueled up and left the gasoline station without paying. The gas station attendant immediately reported the incident, prompting the police to issue a flash alarm. Authorities are currently reviewing CCTV footage from nearby establishments to identify the suspect.

Investigators have identified the vehicle and its license plate, and follow-up operations are in progress. Tua±o added that under the three-strike policy, commanders in areas with repeated gas-and-run incidents will face consequences, including possible relief from their posts after the second and third offenses.