Customs, fire services bust Tuen Mun illegal fuel van
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
Hong Kong Customs and the Fire Services Department carried out an anti-illegal fuel operation in Tuen Mun on Wednesday, August 19, and broke up a mobile illegal petrol filling station that was operating from a vehicle. Officers seized about 370 litres of duty-unpaid petrol with an estimated market value of HK$12,000 and a duty value of about HK$2,200. A suspected vehicle was also impounded after officers found it parked near homes along Lung Kwu Tan Road with plastic petrol storage tanks and refuelling equipment inside. Authorities said the case remains under investigation and arrests may follow.
Key Points
- During the evening operation on August 19, officers found a seven-seater parked by the roadside near residential premises on Lung Kwu Tan Road.
- Inside the vehicle, enforcement officers discovered plastic petrol storage containers together with tools believed to be used for refuelling vehicles.
- Customs and fire personnel searched the vehicle immediately and removed the van, fuel, equipment and related items for further investigation.
- Customs said it will investigate the source of the vehicle, the duty-unpaid petrol and the refuelling tools, and may make arrests later.
- Authorities said vehicles carrying duty-unpaid petrol, and tools used or intended for related offences, may be handled and confiscated under the Dutiable Commodities Ordinance.
Why It Matters
Illegal fuel stations lack compliant fire prevention equipment and installations, creating serious safety risks for nearby residents and road users. Customs and the Fire Services Department said they will continue targeted patrols at black spots across Hong Kong and urged the public not to buy illegal fuel. The case also underlines that handling, selling or buying duty-unpaid fuel can lead to a maximum HK$1 million fine and two years' imprisonment, while dangerous goods offences may bring additional penalties.