PHNOM PENH — Cambodian Prime Minister has ordered an investigation into reports of illegal fuel smuggling from Thailand into Cambodia, following Thai media coverage of an alleged cross-border network.
In a statement posted online, Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, said he had seen reports about a smuggling ring bringing fuel illegally from Thailand for sale in Cambodia. He instructed Keo Rottanak, Minister of Mines and Energy, Sar Thet, Commissioner of National Police, and Kun Nhem, Director General of Customs and Excise, to conduct a thorough investigation into the matter.
The Cambodian leader said that if the allegations are confirmed, authorities must identify all individuals involved and take the “strictest legal action” against them. He added that any fuel companies found to be linked to the operation would face licence revocation.
Hun Manet, Prime Minister of Cambodia, also warned that any government officials or members of the armed forces implicated in the case would be dismissed and permanently removed from public service, regardless of rank or position.
He reiterated that Cambodia has suspended imports of all fuel and gas products from Thailand since June 2025, stressing that the country no longer depends on Thai energy supplies and has sufficient sources from other countries.
The issue surfaced after Thai authorities flagged a suspected smuggling network, with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul condemning those involved as “bad actors.”
