Kazakhstan cracks down on illegal fuel smuggling at border crossings

Kazakhstan’s Interior Ministry has announced stronger measures to stop the illegal export of petroleum products and lubricants. The focus is on protecting the country’s economic security, with special attention given to border regions. The interior minister is directly overseeing the operations. Law enforcement has increased patrols at 48 automotive border crossings. A total of 59 patrol police posts are now active in these areas to prevent illegal fuel transport. Inspections are also being carried out in border regions, particularly Zhamyl, Turkestan, and Mangystau.

Over the past month, authorities have seized around 12 tons of smuggled petroleum products. They have also identified 64 vehicles with altered fuel tanks. The owners of these vehicles now face administrative penalties.

The ministry has additionally detected enlarged fuel tanks in other vehicles to stop illegal transport. Administrative cases have been opened against six facility owners involved in these activities. The Interior Ministry has confirmed that these measures will continue. The crackdown aims to reduce the illegal outflow of petroleum products. Authorities remain committed to enforcing economic security across the country.