The Prime Minister harshly condemned the "wicked" oil smuggling ring selling fuel to Cambodia. He ordered a joint task force of police, military, and the Anti-Money Laundering Office to expedite arrests. Initial investigations reveal the operation is organized as a company. This afternoon, the Minister of Justice will report on the progress.
On 2 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister and Minister of Interior, addressed reports of a group illegally exporting oil to Cambodia. He said, "We have now set up a unit to pursue hoarders, especially those exploiting the situation by raising prices and smuggling oil for sale abroad."
The Prime Minister confirmed that such individuals exist but are few. He stated that security agencies are carefully managing the situation and will take legal action against those who threaten national security.
When asked whether those behind the smuggling ring are known, Anutin said authorities have deployed personnel to arrest, suppress, and prosecute offenders. Asked if he could reveal the main culprits, he replied it is structured as a company. This afternoon, Police Lieutenant General Rutthapol Neowarat, the Minister of Justice, will provide a briefing. Joint operations involve police, the Anti-Money Laundering Office, and military forces.
When further questioned whether smuggling oil to Cambodia constitutes a serious offense, the Prime Minister responded immediately, "It is wicked." When asked if it could be considered an act of treason, Anutin nodded in agreement.
Regarding the volume of oil smuggled, the Prime Minister said he needed to review the details first. He explained that oil quantity figures from different areas must be adjusted and verified accurately. He emphasized that no decisions will be made without thorough verification and cross-referencing data from various agencies to ensure consistency. The Prime Minister requested not to inquire into details at this stage.