Bangkok: The Ministry of Energy is intensifying its oversight of offshore oil rigs in the Gulf of Thailand following reports of drones trespassing in these sensitive areas. In a bid to bolster the nation’s energy security, the Ministry is also scrutinizing power plants and related infrastructure, working closely with the military and other relevant agencies to enhance protective measures.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Veerapat Kiattifuengfu, Deputy Permanent Secretary and spokesperson for the Ministry of Energy, addressed the issue of unidentified drones disrupting offshore oil and gas platforms, a situation exacerbated by recent hostilities on the Thai-Cambodian border. The Ministry, through the Department of Natural Resources, is collaborating with concessionaires and contractors to reinforce security protocols against potential threats, including unidentified individuals, objects, vehicles, and UAVs.
Recent surveillance by concessionaires and contractors has confirmed the presence of unidentified vessels and UAVs near key petroleum production sites, such as the Erawan, Benjamat, Pailin, and Plathong platforms. In response, the Ministry convened a meeting with stakeholders to establish preventive and risk mitigation strategies. These measures include heightened monitoring, immediate expulsion of unauthorized vessels, and prompt notification to the Royal Thai Navy and Department of Petroleum in case of intrusions. Additionally, the Ministry advises against nighttime personnel transfers to production platforms and suggests developing a comprehensive maritime sabotage prevention plan.
Mr. Veerapat emphasized the critical role of petroleum production in maintaining energy security. The Ministry is working with concessionaires and contractors to form a maritime coordination group to provide daily reports. PTT Public Company Limited has been asked to assist in incident monitoring and to collaborate with agencies such as the Hydrographic Department, the Royal Thai Navy, and the Marine Department. Ships navigating the Gulf of Thailand are urged to activate radar and AIS for identification to ensure safe operations. Despite the situation, the Ministry assures that petroleum production remains unaffected and will continue to monitor and coordinate with relevant agencies, soliciting military support for enhanced security measures.