Inspectors from the Independent Authority for Public Revenue’s (AADE) DEOS unit dealt a significant blow to maritime fuel smuggling rings (AADE), as part of targeted inspections currently underway, after a cargo ship carrying 12,280 liters of contraband marine diesel was discovered at the port of Volos.
A DEOS team conducted an inspection of a cargo ship flying the flags of Saint Christopher and Nevis, which was moored at the port of Volos and had declared metal cylinders as its cargo. During the inspection of the tanks and the physical count of the fuel, the inspectors discovered an excess of 10.4 metric tons—or 12,280 liters—of marine diesel fuel, which was not accompanied by the required customs or commercial documentation.
According to the Independent Authority for Public Revenue (AADE), this is a well-known method used by smuggling rings, which falsely report fuel quantities as “consumed” during voyages. This creates undeclared stockpiles, which can then be illegally diverted to the market, yielding significant financial gain.
After the violation was detected, the inspectors proceeded to prohibit the vessel from sailing, following a request to the Volos Central Port Authority, seized the entire illegal shipment of 12,280 liters of marine diesel fuel, and imposed the corresponding customs and tax charges, which amount to 8,855.76 euros.
The investigation by the competent authorities is ongoing, with the aim of identifying the remaining members of the ring allegedly involved in the case.