Surat thani: The Surat Thani Commerce Department has lodged a police report with substantial evidence against a major company for hoarding oil. The complaint was filed by the Surat Thani Provincial Commerce Office after evidence surfaced indicating excessive stockpiling of goods by the company. In response, the company has denied any allegations of stockpiling, stating that it maintains transparent oil stock management practices, strictly adheres to legal requirements, and remains open to inspections.
According to Thai News Agency, the complaint filed by the Surat Thani Provincial Commerce Office accuses P.C. Siam Petroleum Co., Ltd. of violating the Price Control and Service Act of 1999. The accusations include hoarding controlled goods beyond the permissible quantity, storing them in unauthorized locations, and either refusing or delaying sales without reasonable justification. These alleged activities were reported to have taken place in March of this year. The investigating officers at the Surat Thani City Police Station are now tasked with gathering evidence and pursuing legal action against the company.
In a statement, P.C. Siam Petroleum Co., Ltd. addressed the allegations, clarifying that the company operates as an oil trader under Section 7, managing the purchase, sale, and storage of fuel oil in Surat Thani province under strict legal oversight. The company emphasized that its operations are aligned with normal oil delivery and reserve plans, ensuring that customer and industry needs in the area are met without engaging in hoarding for personal gain.
The company assured that its inventory management system is verifiable, with strict segregation of stored items from products of other operators. The processes of receiving and dispensing oil are described as normal, transparent, and in full compliance with all relevant laws, regulations, and standards. P.C. Siam Petroleum Co., Ltd. reiterated its commitment to transparency and expressed willingness to cooperate with government agencies by providing all necessary information and documents to ensure a fair consideration process.