Pursat investigates fuel theft claims on highway

Pursat provincial authorities launched a late-night investigation along National Road 5 yesterday to verify claims that trucks stopping overnight in the province were routinely having their fuel stolen.

Pursat Governor Khoy Rida led the provincial unified command and municipal-district authorities in the overnight operation across sections of National Road 5 in Pursat City, Krakor district and Bakan district.

The investigation followed allegations circulated on social media claiming that truck drivers travelling along the route and parking overnight in Pursat frequently lost fuel. According to the Pursat Provincial Administration, the operation sought to establish the facts and address misleading information that could cause confusion and damage local reputation.

During the inspection, Rida and his working group questioned numerous truck drivers about their experiences. The governor stated that only a small minority reported fuel losses, noting those incidents occurred during previous road construction phases. The vast majority of drivers confirmed they had never experienced fuel theft while stopping in the province.

Local truck drivers from Boeung Khnar commune in Bakan district stressed they had never encountered theft, even when leaving trucks unattended. Authorities stated these findings directly contradict widespread online claims.

Despite dismissing the online allegations as unfounded misinformation, the provincial administration announced it would maintain high vigilance. Officials are strengthening security measures along National Road 5 by establishing designated secure rest areas protected by stationed security forces.

The administration has published emergency contact numbers, enabling drivers and travellers to report difficulties and request immediate assistance. Authorities urged the public to utilise these official communication channels rather than relying on unverified social media claims as monitoring of National Road 5 continues.