The Fire Services Department (FSD), the Hong Kong Police Force and Hong Kong Customs mounted a territory-wide joint operation codenamed "Strong Thunder" today (April 20). Nine illegal fuel filling stations were smashed and a total of about 40,000 litres of diesel with an estimated market value of about $800,000 was seized.
During the operation, six oil tank wagons and a large quantity of fuelling tools were found by FSD personnel. Fourteen men aged 30 to 65 years old suspected to be connected with the case were intercepted. They will later be charged with suspected offences under the Fire Services (Fire Hazard Abatement) Regulation, the Dangerous Goods Ordinance and the Dangerous Goods (Control) Regulation.
To protect public safety, the FSD will consider suspending the licences of the dangerous goods vehicles involved. Upon conviction, the FSD may revoke the licences and prohibit the vehicles from any further conveyance of dangerous goods. The FSD had already seized all the diesel involved, and will later apply for forfeiture orders from the court.
The FSD has all along been committed to combating all kinds of illicit fuelling activities. The FSD called on citizens not to patronise illegal fuel filling stations. As these illegal fuel filling stations lack the proper fire safety installations and equipment used for fuel filling stations, the consequences could be catastrophic in the event of a fire.
Members of the public are urged to report suspected illegal fuel filling stations to the FSD by calling the 24-hour hotline 2723 8787.
With a view to enhancing the safety of the manufacture, conveyance, storage and use of dangerous goods, the FSD reminds members of the public that the amended Dangerous Goods Ordinance and its subsidiary legislation has taken effect on March 31. For more details, please visit the thematic website on dangerous goods: www.hkfsd.gov.hk/dg.
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