Contraband diesel seized in Għajn Dwieli

The discovery was made by Customs officers following several days of surveillance. The Customs Department said it had received a number of reports about poor quality diesel being sold from petrol stations and had initiated the investigations.

The bowser was sealed from the outside by a wall and access to it could only be done with the use of a ladder.

The bowser was attached to a pipe, usually used for water, which ran through a hole in the wall leading to an adjoining garage.

The Customs officers seized the bowser and it was immediately noted the diesel was contraband. Samples of the fuel were then taking for testing where it resulted the diesel had a sulphur content that was 100 times higher than the normal level.

Such a high sulphur content result in higher emissions of poisonous substances which are harmful to both human health and the environment.

The diesel is now under the supervision of the Customs, whilst an investigation by the Police is underway. Meanwhile, the Resources Authority said it was taking legal action against the petrol stations.

The Customs Department regularly conducts testing of fuel in various localities around Malta and Gozo to ensure no contraband fuel is being used.