CHONBURI, Thailand – The Excise Department, in a joint operation with the Royal Thai Navy, has successfully intercepted a suspicious vessel in Sattahip, Chonburi, seizing 85,000 liters of illegal diesel. The operation resulted in a combined fine of over 3.85 million Baht after the occupants failed to provide legal documentation for the fuel’s origin.
Director-General Pornchai Theeravech stated that the raid on March 27, 2026, was a joint effort by the Excise Office Region 2, Chonburi Excise Office 2, and the First Naval Area Command of the Royal Thai Navy.
Initial inspection of the vessel’s cargo hold found a substance resembling diesel fuel. Samples were sent to the Excise Department’s Product Analysis and Exhibit Group for verification. Tests confirmed the cargo was 85,000 liters of diesel fuel as defined under the Excise Tax Act B.E. 2560 (2017). Authorities have formally charged the offenders, totaling fines of 3,857,640 Baht.
The Director-General emphasized that this crackdown aligns with the energy crime suppression policies of Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul and the directives of Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance Ekniti Nitithanprapas, who oversees the department and emphasizes stricter action against tax evasion.
The Excise Department reaffirms its commitment to cooperation to strictly suppress fuel smuggling, prevent the loss of state revenue, and bolster public and business confidence. (NNT)
