Iranian authorities have seized two vessels carrying 150,000 liters of smuggled fuel in the Persian Gulf, according to Mojtaba Ghahramani, the Chief Justice of Hormozgan Province. This operation underscores Tehran's intensified efforts to combat fuel smuggling in the region.

Iran PressIran news:  In a statement released by the Public Relations Office of the Hormozgan Judiciary, Ghahramani detailed the crackdown, which was part of a broader initiative led by a special task force on Kish Island.

Acting on orders from the local prosecutor, maritime security forces identified and intercepted the two vessels suspected of carrying illegal fuel.“The captains, crew members, and passengers of these vessels have been detained,” Ghahramani confirmed. 

With the evidence of smuggling confirmed, the vessels were seized under judicial orders, and the individuals involved were taken into custody, pending further legal proceedings.

Ghahramani emphasized that those engaged in organized fuel smuggling face severe penalties, including fines, imprisonment, and the confiscation of any assets obtained through their crimes.

He cited Article 20 of Iran's Anti-Smuggling Law, which mandates the seizure of vehicles involved in smuggling operations and imposes additional fines equal to the value of the confiscated vehicle.“The seized fuel will be handed over to the National Iranian Oil Products Distribution Company, following legal protocols, and will be reintegrated into the legal distribution network,” Gahramani added.

The Chief Justice of Hormozgan Province highlighted that the judiciary, under the directive of Iran's top judicial authorities, has prioritized the fight against smuggling, particularly fuel smuggling in the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman. This effort involves rigorous intelligence monitoring and operational measures aimed at enhancing oversight and ensuring effective law enforcement.

This latest operation reflects Iran’s ongoing struggle to tackle fuel smuggling, a pervasive issue with significant economic and security implications for the country and the broader region.

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