Six arrested for illegal sales of marine gas oil

SINGAPORE - The Police Coast Guard (PCG) has arrested six male foreigners for their involvement in the illegal sale of marine gas oil (MGO) on April 2. A total $400 was also seized in relation to the case.

Investigations revealed that the subjects, who were the crew of a tugboat, siphoned about 2,700 litres of MGO from its daily usage fuel tank to another tank onboard to facilitate the illegal sale of MGO between March 25 and April 1. This periodic transfer of MGO was carried out without the owner's knowledge.

Further investigations revealed that the crew had also sold about 3,600 litres of MGO to an unknown vessel for $3,000. The illegal sale took place at the sea off West Jurong on March 24 between 9.00 pm and 9.30 pm.

The six male suspects will be charged in court on April 4 for the offence of Criminal Breach of Trust by Servant with Common Intention.

A one-week remand will be sought from the court to complete the on-going investigation, and to finalise the preferred charges on the suspects.

If found guilty, each person will face a jail term of up to 15 years, and shall be liable to be fined.

minlee@sph.com.sg