The Royal Thai Navy has responded to the government’s policy by intensifying surveillance and continuous interception to suppress illegal transport of goods and fuel throughout all Thai waters. The government reiterated its stance: "No overlooking, no leniency, no exceptions."
19 Apr 2026 GMT+7 Miss Ratchada Thanadirek, spokesperson for the Office of the Prime Minister, revealed that the government under the leadership of Prime Minister and Director of the Centre for the Protection of National Maritime Interests, Mr. Anutin Charnvirakul, has ordered a full-scale proactive approach alongside ongoing strict control to prevent and combat the illegal maritime transport of goods covering all Thai waters.
The government spokesperson further stated that from February to April 2026, the Navy has conducted intensive, continuous interceptions, seizing over 335,000 liters of contraband fuel, confiscating 19 tanks of Gasohol 95, alongside more than 1.2 tons of cannabis flower clusters, as well as illegal agricultural products and seafood. Efforts to trace and dismantle the networks behind these activities are ongoing.
Meanwhile, reports have identified abnormalities in 20 maritime fuel transport trips, with an estimated total fuel loss of approximately 57 million liters. It was found that some vessels turned off their Automatic Identification System (AIS) signals — known as Dark activity — to evade inspection. There were also suspicious behaviors such as ship-to-ship (STS) fuel transfers mid-sea and abnormal delays in vessel departures. The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has taken up the case as a special investigation, preparing to inspect fuel storage facilities in Surat Thani Province and summoning involved companies for further information.
This operation aligns with the government’s policy and the Prime Minister’s directives to maximize the effectiveness of suppressing offenses that impact the country’s economy and security. Every step must be clear, transparent, and fair to build public trust and confidence. The government firmly affirms: "No overlooking, no leniency, no exceptions," and will continue to rigorously clamp down on illegal networks in Thai waters to the fullest extent. The government also calls for public cooperation to act as vigilant eyes and ears by reporting tips to the Navy hotline at 1465, available 24 hours a day.