FSD busts 2 illegal oil stations, seizes over 10,000 litres of diesel

The Fire Services Department raided two illegal filling stations over two days, seizing more than 10,000 litres of diesel worth over $300,000.

The operations on Wednesday and Thursday by the department's task force targeted illegal refuelling activities in Sai Wan and Ma On Shan. Officers found a licensed dangerous goods tanker and refuelling tools and intercepted three men suspected of being involved.

The men will be prosecuted for alleged breaches of fire safety and dangerous goods ordinances. The department has suspended the vehicle's dangerous goods licence, which will be revoked upon conviction. The seized diesel will be forfeited by court order.

The department warned that operating an illegal filling station is a serious offence, carrying a maximum penalty of a $100,000 fine and six months' imprisonment for a first conviction. It urged the public not to patronise such stations, which lack proper safety standards and firefighting equipment, posing serious risks.