Customs warns the public not to buy illicit fuel

22 Apr 2004

Customs officers today (April 22) impounded 15 vehicles and arrested 14 drivers, aged between 27 and 55, suspected to be connected with the purchase of illicit fuel in a territory-wide operation to crack down on illicit oil sale and purchase activities.

In a press briefing to round up the operation, the Deputy Head of the Revenue and General Investigation Bureau, Mr David Fong, warned members of the public that the use of illicit fuel was a criminal offence.

Drivers concerned, once convicted, will have a criminal record and their vehicles will be forfeited.

Offenders will also be liable to a maximum fine of $1 million and imprisonment for two years.

During today's operation, Customs officers from the Revenue and General Investigation Bureau and the Special Task Force arrested 17 people (including 14 drivers), aged between 25 and 55; and seized 3,600 litres of illicit fuel, worth about $35,000, with a duty potential of $17,000.

Mr Fong reiterated that drivers convicted twice in connection with illicit oil offence would have their driving licence suspended for six months. Drivers convicted three or more times would have their driving licence suspended for more than six months.

Since 2001, a total of 25 drivers have their licences suspended by the court.

Ends/Thursday, April 22, 2004

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