TAK, Thailand – A severe fuel shortage has sparked concerns among residents in Phop Phra District, Tak Province, leading to long queues at gas stations, with people waiting for hours to fill up their tanks.
The ongoing fuel crisis in Thailand’s border areas has intensified following government measures to curb call center scams, which include banning fuel exports to neighboring countries. As a result, residents in Phop Phra have been rushing to buy fuel, fearing a complete shortage. Reports indicate that fuel prices in Myawaddy, Myanmar, have surged to 200 baht per liter, driving up demand for fuel supplies.
The crisis has prompted increased border patrols by the 421st Infantry Company of the Rachamanu Task Force. During a recent operation, soldiers apprehended three Thai men attempting to smuggle 800 liters of fuel in four 200-liter steel barrels near the Moei River, which separates Thailand and Myanmar. The suspects admitted to smuggling fuel to Myawaddy, where it is in high demand, citing lucrative prices and wages.
The three individuals, along with the seized fuel, have been handed over to Phop Phra Police Station for further legal proceedings. (TNA)
