Thailand Probes Missing 57 Million Litres of Fuel
Thailand Probes Missing 57 Million Litres of Fuel
BANGKOK, April 8, 2026 — Thailand’s Justice Ministry has launched a major investigation into the disappearance of at least 57 million litres of fuel, as authorities probe possible irregularities in oil shipments to the southern province of Surat Thani amid an ongoing energy crisis.
The inquiry, led by the Department of Special Investigation (DSI), follows inspections of tanker deliveries which found a significant discrepancy between fuel transported and fuel received.
According to officials, records show that of 217 million litres of fuel shipped to Surat Thani, only around 160 million litres reached designated depots, leaving tens of millions of litres unaccounted for.
Authorities are working with the Royal Thai Police and local administrative bodies to investigate possible violations, including illegal diversion of fuel, stockpiling, or transfers to unregistered tankers at sea.
Initial inspections also uncovered irregular stockpiles at several locations nationwide. One facility in Ang Thong was found holding more than 330,000 litres of fuel, while three others in Saraburi collectively stored over 29,000 litres.
Major energy firms, including PTT Oil and Retail Business, Bangchak Corporation, Star Fuels, and IRPC, have been questioned by investigators and have denied any involvement.
A separate complaint has been filed against P.C. Siam Group over alleged hoarding of more than two million litres of fuel, an accusation the company has rejected.
Justice Minister Ruttapon Naowarat said the investigation remains ongoing and warned that the scale of missing fuel could exceed initial estimates.
Authorities have not ruled out criminal activity and said further findings will be released once the investigation is complete, as Thailand faces mounting pressure to stabilize fuel supplies and curb speculative practices during a period of rising global energy prices.
