Tugboat in Persian Gulf operated by Filipino crew seized for oil smuggling

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said on Sunday that a tugboat operated by a Filipino crew was seized for alleged oil smuggling.

“Ambassador to Iran Wilfredo C. Santos reported to the Department that the tugboat was seized because of alleged oil smuggling,” the DFA said in a statement.

According to authorities, the seizing of the tugboat happened in the Persian Gulf last September 7, Saturday.

Santos also said that investigation on the case is now ongoing and once the facts have been established, “the matter will be referred to the local court.”

The Philippine Embassy in Tehran is still getting further updates on the conditions of the Filipino crew aboard the tugboat as it vowed to provide assistance when needed. /je