Minister confirms indications of fuel smuggling

Minister of Mines and Energy Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono confirmed on Monday that there's an indication of fuel smuggling out of the country as reported by the press.

Susilo pointed out that a massive piling up of kerosene in barges not officially listed at the state oil and gas firm Pertamina was a strong indication.

He was speaking to the Kompas daily following an impromptu visit to the Cilincing Ports in North Jakarta. The press had earlier reported of massive fuel smuggling from the Cilincing area.

"There's a truth in what the press has reported," he said.

Susilo said that he had ordered Pertamina to review its delivery order to trace where the alleged fuel smuggling started.

He also said that he had make coordination with the head of the National Police and the Armed Forces Commander to check of possible involvement of security officials in the fuel smuggling.

Susilo made the impromptu visit to the Cilincing Port accompanied by reporters, senior ministry and Pertamina officials. The Minister found four barges not listed at Pertamina loaded with kerosene. It's unclear who owned the barges. (*)