Bangkok: The Maritime Security Command Center (MSCC) has issued a clarification regarding a misleading image circulating on social media, which was mistakenly identified as a cluster of oil tankers. The MSCC emphasized that the image in question is not an oil tanker, urging the public to verify information before sharing it.
According to Thai News Agency, the confusion arose from a ship tracking system symbol, interpreted as a group of oil tankers gathered in one area. This symbol is part of the Automatic Identification System (AIS) or the Universal Automatic Identification System (UAIS), which is used for the safe navigation of ships and maritime objects globally, in line with International Maritime Organization (IMO) regulations.
A detailed analysis of the images revealed that the site was, in fact, an offshore power plant. The vessels identified were licensed for transporting fossil resources from the production process, not for commercial oil or gas refueling purposes. The area is under strict safety regulations, allowing only vessels involved in production activities due to potential flash fire risks.
The government, through the MSCC, has called for public cooperation in verifying facts before dissemination, particularly concerning maritime symbols in the AIS system. It has outlined three key directives: ensuring information is sourced from reliable channels, practicing critical thinking, especially with information impacting national security and the economy, and refraining from sharing unverified data.
Moreover, entering false or misleading information into computer systems that could harm the public or nation may violate relevant laws. The government is committed to delivering accurate and transparent information and seeks collaboration across all sectors to foster a high-quality information society for the nation's benefit.