Bangkok: Anutin Charnvirakul, the Prime Minister of Thailand, has issued orders for a comprehensive search operation to locate 300,000 liters of missing oil, initiating a nationwide inspection to address the issue. Anutin has instructed various governmental bodies, including the Ministry of Justice, the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), and the Royal Thai Police, to prosecute the Ang Thong oil depot for hoarding the oil. He has vowed to ensure that all those involved in the illegal stockpiling will be prosecuted without exception, emphasizing that he will continue to operate in his official capacity until a new government is established.
According to Thai News Agency, Anutin explained in an interview that he has signed an official order directing several agencies, including the Ministry of Justice, DSI, Royal Thai Police, and the Department of Provincial Administration, to work together in prosecuting those involved in the illegal stockpiling of oil and other goods. He clarified that this initiative is not a task force but rather a coordinated effort among various agencies to form operational teams aimed at investigating and prosecuting the offenders.
In Ang Thong province, where the stockpiled oil was discovered, legal proceedings have already commenced. Anutin assured that all charges would be applied as per existing laws. He also mentioned the ongoing nationwide investigation, highlighting that while some oil has been removed from the system based on daily consumption and production figures, the amount is not substantial and will undergo further scrutiny.
When questioned about the potential scale of the missing oil, Anutin indicated that he had not yet received a report, and any speculation on the quantity was premature. He stated that the Center for Monitoring and Managing the Conflict in the Middle East (CMC) would compile necessary information, which he would subsequently address.
Addressing the notion of "masked figures," Anutin dismissed the term, asserting that those who have been caught hoarding large quantities of oil are not operating under concealed identities. He reiterated his commitment to prosecuting anyone found guilty of hoarding oil or similar goods, emphasizing that no leniency would be granted, as any such leniency would equate to breaking the law.
Regarding the continuity of the Ministry of Energy's operations during the governmental transition, Anutin acknowledged the transitional phase for the entire cabinet. He stressed that regardless of whether a new or existing minister takes office, all must adhere to the Constitution and governmental guidelines. He pledged to maintain operations as a caretaker government until the new administration assumes control.
Anutin also addressed the recent development of the US lifting restrictions on Thailand's oil purchases from Iran. He stated that Thailand would examine import channels for oil, ensuring there are no issues in importing crude oil. He highlighted the necessity of planning for all goods, including intermediates and finished products derived from crude oil production, with appropriate control measures in place.