SIMPANG AMPAT: The state Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry foiled an attempt by irresponsible quarters to abuse government subsidised diesel when they detained a lorry at a petrol station here recently.

The incident came to light when an enforcement team from the ministry conducted an inspection and found the lorry transferring liquid, believed to be diesel, into a skid tank using nine fleet cards (SKDS).

State KPDN director S. Jegan said checks showed four fleet cards with purchase receipts were suspected to have been used improperly. 

He said the lorry, two hoses connected from the pump motor to the tank, and one pump motor were seized to facilitate investigation into the case.

"We also seized several documents to assist in the investigation into the case.

"The steel storage tank contained an estimated 8,500 litres of diesel, valued at RM19,975. The total seizure amounted to RM34,075," he said.

He said the case is investigated under the Supply Control Act 1961 and the ministry is in the process of identifying the individuals or companies involved in the diesel distribution chain, including the source of the diesel and any irresponsible parties involved.

"We are actively monitoring and patrolling around Penang to curb leakage and smuggling of controlled and subsidised goods. 

"We are committed to consistent enforcement action and will not compromise on enforcing laws under KPDN, especially regarding the misuse of controlled and subsidised diesel, which is a critical public interest.

"The public is urged to be vigilant and report any fraudulent activities related to controlled and subsidised goods," he added.

Under the SKDS, 33 types of public transportation and goods vehicles continue to benefit from subsidised diesel via fleet cards. 

The Finance Ministry on June 12 had announced that logistics vehicle owners awaiting fleet cards could apply for reimbursements starting July 1.

The implementation of rationalised diesel subsidies in the peninsula commenced on June 10, fixing diesel prices at RM3.35 per litre.

https://www.nst.com.my/news/crime-courts/2024/08/1088903/ministry-foils-suspected-fleet-card-abuse-seized-lorry-8500-litres