Police Major General Phasawi Ruangphu, Chief of Kanchanaburi Provincial Police, has ordered strict control over fuel sales in Sangkhla Buri district, banning hoarding, refusal to sell, or price gouging. He also instructed local authorities to organize patrols to enforce these measures amid fears that 'ant armies' might be smuggling fuel to neighboring countries.
The impact of the Middle East war crisis has caused nationwide concern in Thailand about potential fuel shortages. In many provinces, people have panicked, stockpiling fuel for their cars, motorcycles, agricultural use, and general business needs. This situation, combined with announcements of fuel price increases by companies, has led to significant unrest in several provinces.
On 4 March 2026, a reporter from Sangkhla Buri district, Kanchanaburi province, reported that the area has two fuel stations with more customers than before. Both station owners confirmed that fuel supply is sufficient to meet local demand and advised against panic. They also stated that prices have not been increased at this time.
Meanwhile, Police Major General Phasawi Ruangphu revealed concerns regarding Sangkhla Buri’s proximity to neighboring countries, fearing that 'ant armies' may be illegally transporting fuel across natural borders, which could negatively affect local residents.
Therefore, he ordered Police Colonel Santi Pitaksakul, Chief of Sangkhla Buri Police Station, to deploy patrols to fuel stations and monitor customer behavior, as there has been a higher volume of customers than usual. The orders include preventing operators from overcharging consumers and managing traffic to ensure safety for fuel station users. He also strictly warned fuel station operators against selling fuel outside the kingdom under any circumstances.