(Illustrative image)
The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has uncovered three illegal fuel purchase rings in Saraburi Province, where over 29,000 liters of diesel and gasoline were stored and sold illegally. Authorities are preparing to take legal action.
On 26 Mar 2026 GMT+7, the DSI’s Special Operations Division, in coordination with relevant agencies, conducted nationwide inspections of fuel traders following the Prime Minister’s order to prevent and address fuel shortages caused by conflicts in the Middle East.
Between 24 and 25 Mar 2026 GMT+7, DSI officers, working jointly with the Department of Energy Business, local administrative agencies, and police, inspected legally licensed fuel traders—including major distributors and independent sellers—in 16 provinces across all regions, covering 35 sites. Key details of the operation are as follows.
Central and Eastern Regions Officers from the Special Operations Centers for Areas 1 and 2 inspected major fuel depots in Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya and Chonburi provinces, finding that most controlled their stock using standardized computerized systems.
However, in Saraburi Province, officials found three illegal fuel purchasing rings secretly storing and selling over 29,000 liters of diesel and gasoline without notification or business permits. Legal proceedings will be initiated.
Northeastern Region The Special Operations Center for Area 4 inspected jobbers and ethanol production plants in Khon Kaen, Kalasin, and Roi Et provinces to ensure fair fuel distribution and prevent illicit exports during the crisis. The businesses operated legally, clearly displayed prices, complied with standards for storage and transport, and showed no signs of illegal hoarding.
Northern Region Officers from Special Operations Centers for Areas 5 and 6 conducted inspections in Chiang Rai, Lampang, Phichit, Kamphaeng Phet, and Tak provinces, focusing on measuring fuel stock levels in storage tanks against accounting records to prevent hoarding. No irregularities or signs of hoarding were found.
Southern Region Officials from Special Operations Centers for Areas 8, 9, and the Southern Border Provinces visited establishments in Songkhla, Surat Thani, and Pattani provinces to monitor fuel prices at depots, ensuring compliance with official announcements. They also gathered operators’ suggestions on strategic fuel depot planning for regional security. Inspections covered service stations, storage facilities, fuel volume systems, and related documentation using both automated and in-depth verification methods.
The DSI continues to integrate efforts with relevant agencies in proactive measures to inspect and regulate fuel trading consistently, ensuring fair and transparent fuel distribution to prevent hoarding, illegal sales, and offenses that could impact the country’s energy security.