Illegal Sales of Fuel : 17 suspects arrested for illegal fuel smuggling

The authorities have arrested individuals involved in the illegal smuggling of fuel to terrorist organizations.

In an effort to ensure peace, stability, and the rule of law, while striving for a constant supply of fuel for local sufficiency, restrictions have been imposed on the transportation of fuel to certain areas in Kachin State and Shan State (North), where terrorist insurgents from the MNDAA, TNLA, and KIA, as well as PDF terrorist groups, operate.

Despite these restrictions, some unscrupulous businessmen have transported fuel via detour routes, taking advantage of security gaps in certain areas of Sagaing and Mandalay Regions.

They stored the fuel in villages in Sagaing Region and then transported it to the restricted areas in Sagaing Region, Kachin State, and Shan State (North), selling it at extremely high prices.

Acting on a tip-off, security forces raided Nyaung Pin Zin  Village in Sagaing Township, near the Kantalu Combined Checkpoint, on December 27th.

This led to the arrest of 17 suspects at five fuel storage areas, along with the seizure of 22 various vehicles, over 60,000 gallons of different types of fuel, and cash income from illegal fuel sales.

The investigation revealed that fuel had been transported to Hpakant and Tanai, where KIA terrorist insurgents are involved in jade, gold, and amber mining via the Sagaing-Sheinmakar-Kanphyu-Thitseikgyi road.

Fuel was also transported to illegal gold mining sites in the Kawlin area and along the Chindwin River, both controlled by the PDF, as well as to illegal gold mining areas in Thabeikkyin in Sintku Township and illegal gem mining areas in Mogok, controlled by TNLA and PDF terrorists.

Furthermore, locals in Sagaing Region stockpiled fuel from legally operated stations and resold it to illegal smugglers, depending on the market price.

This illegal fuel market contributed to the rise in fuel prices in the local market, which in turn led to an increase in the cost of consumer goods.

Effective action will be taken against the 17 suspects in accordance with Section 5 of the Important Goods and Services Law.

The seized vehicles and fuel will be managed in compliance with the law and procedures. The public is advised to inform security institutions about illegal fuel smuggling confidentially.