Bangkok: The Department of Special Investigation (DSI) has identified an increase in the number of ships suspected of stockpiling oil, with voyages rising from 96 to 99. Pol. Lt. Col. Woranan Srilam, Director of the Consumer Protection Division and DSI spokesperson, disclosed the progress of the investigation into alleged oil hoarding. This investigation is a joint effort between DSI officials, the Department of Energy Business, and the Excise Department, focusing on ship trips transporting oil at sea off Surat Thani province. The investigation was prompted by irregularities in trip numbers, suggesting potential oil hoarding. Data comparison is underway, involving transport documents and excise tax proof to verify oil upon arrival at its destination. A comparison table of ships and their destinations, particularly those heading to Surat Thani province in March 2026, is being compiled.
According to Thai News Agency, updated data shows an increase to 99 voyages, necessitating reconciliation of all figures with the fuel volume, including diesel and gasoline. The total number of vessels used among these 99 voyages must also be determined, as some vessels made multiple trips. The investigation into the disappearance of 57 million liters of oil at sea is ongoing, focusing on any oil that may have spilled in Surat Thani province.
The DSI spokesperson further noted that the main shipping routes are primarily to the eastern region, targeting refineries in Si Racha District, Chonburi Province, and Rayong Province, with subsequent transport to Surat Thani Province in the south. There are still details under scrutiny, such as whether the oil volume remains unchanged during transit, based on reported figures.
Ship tonnage varies, and some carry multiple oil types, necessitating the involvement of regulatory agencies like the Department of Energy Business and the Excise Department to review all figures for consistency. Anomalies were found, including unusual travel durations on routes from the eastern to southern regions, specifically to Surat Thani province, warranting further investigation.