Bangkok: The Department of Energy Business is taking action against refineries for illegal oil transportation, emphasizing the importance of accurate documentation in the industry. The department has referred cases of incorrect oil transport documents to the Department of Special Investigation (DSI) for prosecution of those involved in stockpiling oil.
According to Thai News Agency, the Department of Energy Business clarified its stance following past news reports that suggested oil refineries were not guilty of hoarding but were facing issues due to incomplete documentation. Mr. Sarawut Kaewtathip, Director-General of the Department of Energy Business, stressed the need to rectify any miscommunications. He highlighted that the department has ramped up its efforts to ensure oil traders comply with the law, specifically using transport documents as a tool for verification under the Fuel Oil Trading Act B.E. 2543 (2000).
Recent inspections at six oil depots in Surat Thani Province revealed 166 shipping documents with inaccurate or incomplete information, violating the law. Charges have been filed against the six refineries responsible for these discrepancies. The case has been forwarded to relevant authorities, including the Royal Thai Police and the DSI, for further investigation. The irregularities in shipping documents are critical and may be linked to a potential "fuel hoarding scheme," for which the DSI will lead the investigation and its expansion.
The Director-General has instructed all fuel retailers to ensure the preparation of accurate transport documents. Any violations or illegal activities will be strictly addressed in accordance with the law.