Makassar. The Indonesian Navy has thwarted a large-scale illegal diesel distribution operation involving two tankers and seven fuel trucks in the waters off Makassar, South Sulawesi, officials said on Wednesday.

A total of 106,000 liters of diesel fuel were seized during the operation, according to Rear Admiral Abdul Aziz, commander of Naval Operational Area VI in Makassar. The shipment lacked valid shipping and distribution documents.

The interception was carried out using the Navy’s tactical vessel Suluh Pari II after authorities received reports of suspicious mid-sea refueling activity.

Upon inspection, officers discovered diesel fuel being transferred from land-based tank trucks to two tankers — Sukses Rahayu, carrying around 15 tons of diesel, and Sania, loaded with approximately 90 tons, Abdul said.

“During the inspection, we found seven fuel trucks at the scene — two were actively transferring fuel, one was waiting, and four had already emptied their loads,” Abdul told reporters.

Dozens of individuals were detained for further questioning.

A senior security supervisor at Pertamina Patra Niaga, Purnomo, said the company would impose strict sanctions if violations in the distribution chain are confirmed.

“If it is proven that diesel was distributed in violation of regulations, we are committed to imposing sanctions,” Purnomo said.

The case will now be handed over to the South Sulawesi Police for further investigation.