Oil Stockpile Found in Ang Thong Amid Shortage; Company Accused of Price Gouging

The Prime Minister held a meeting to address the fuel shortage, aiming to resolve the situation within one to two weeks by increasing supply and urging the public to stop hoarding.

A new measure requires fuel wholesalers to sell at the same price as retail stations to ensure wider distribution and prevent panic at the pumps. PTTOR will lead this initiative.

The Prime Minister repeatedly denied the existence of a 'hidden hand' or 'ghost' manipulating the fuel supply, attributing the shortage solely to public panic buying and hoarding.

Despite increased consumption due to public anxiety, oil production and crude oil imports remain normal, with no reduction in refining capacity.

Consumer Protection Police (CCB) raided an oil company in Ang Thong, discovering a large stockpile of 3.3 million liters of fuel allegedly being sold above the official price.

The raid in Ang Thong was a result of complaints about inflated fuel prices at several stations in Sing Buri, which sourced their supply from the Ang Thong company.

The discovered stockpile included 48,000 liters of diesel, 210,000 liters of Gasohol 95, and 73,000 liters of Gasohol 91, valued at approximately 12.24 million baht. The company sold fuel at 40.50 baht per liter.

When asked to provide documentation for their claimed purchase price of 39.50 baht per liter, the company was unable to present any evidence.

Samples of the seized fuel were sent to the Department of Energy Business and the Excise Department for quality and tax compliance checks.

The discovery of the stockpile contradicts earlier statements from involved parties claiming no fuel was being held in storage within the supply chain.