Customs Crackdown: Heating Oil in Diesel Vehicles Could Land You in Jail
Customs officers in Aachen are cracking down on transport companies using heating oil in diesel vehicles to evade fuel tax. This illegal practice, known as 'heating oil dieselization', can result in severe penalties, including imprisonment or heavy fines.
The Main Customs Office Aachen has noticed a rise in vehicles with heating oil in their tanks. During routine checks, officers take fuel samples. If heating oil is detected, the full tax for the tank capacity must be paid. Some transport companies are exploiting this method to gain an unfair advantage, committing tax evasion.
Elke Willsch, press spokesperson for the Hauptzollstelle Aachen, warns that using heating oil in diesel vehicles is illegal and can cause engine damage and increased pollutant emissions. A recent case involved an owner attempting to conceal heating oil by painting the diesel filter. The criminal offense can lead to up to five years in prison or a substantial fine.
The Main Customs Office Aachen is urging transport companies to comply with fuel tax regulations. Using heating oil in diesel vehicles is not only illegal but also harmful to vehicle engines and the environment. Offenders face serious consequences, including imprisonment or hefty fines.
