The Maritime Operations Center requests the public to verify information before sharing, following a misunderstanding regarding maritime symbols in the AIS system that led to an offshore energy platform being mistaken for an oil tanker.
On 5 Apr 2026 GMT+7, the Maritime Operations Center clarified a case where information spread on social media caused misunderstanding about a symbol in the maritime vessel tracking system, which was interpreted as “a large number of oil tankers anchored together in the same area.”
The fact is that the image is a display from the AIS (Automatic Identification System) or UAIS (Universal Automatic Identification System), which is an automatic identification system for vessels and maritime objects used to ensure navigation safety both domestically and internationally, governed by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations.
A detailed examination of the data from the published image shows that the location identified as many clustered oil tankers is actually an offshore energy production platform, and the vessels present are authorized solely to transport raw materials involved in the production process (Fossil Resources). It is not a commercial fuel or gas refueling station in any way.
Moreover, this area is highly sensitive regarding safety risks, especially fire hazards, and therefore has strict regulations controlling vessel access, permitting only vessels related to production operations.
The government, through the Maritime Operations Center, requests the public’s cooperation. "Stay informed, take shared responsibility, and together strengthen Thai society." .
1. Verify facts from reliable sources before believing or sharing information.
2. Exercise critical judgment when receiving news, especially regarding national security and the economy.
3. Avoid forwarding unconfirmed information.
Entering false or distorted data into computer systems that may cause harm to the public or nation could be punishable under relevant laws. The government reaffirms its commitment to providing accurate, transparent, and verifiable information, and calls on all sectors to work together to create a quality information society for the overall benefit of the country.