Meralco and the Philippine National Police (PNP) have shut down an illegal electric meter selling operation in Sta. Cruz, Manila as part of efforts to stop electricity theft.
Authorities recovered 12 allegedly stolen Meralco electric meters that had been refurbished and were being sold illegally. The PNP Criminal Investigation and Detection Group (CIDG) said the operation followed weeks of surveillance conducted with Meralco’s support.
Investigators said the suspects stole electric meters, fixed them, and sold them online. Meralco said it will file charges against the business involved.
Meralco warned that stealing and selling electric meters is a crime under the Anti-Electricity Pilferage Act, which carries possible jail time and fines of up to ₱100,000. Buyers or users of stolen meters may also face charges under the Anti-Fencing Law.
Meralco urged the public to report suspicious activities involving electric meters, cables, or other power facilities, stressing that such crimes pose risks to public safety and reliable electricity service.
