Oil theft in Central Asia

In recent years, many Central Asian countries have introduced much stiffer penalties for oil theft to deter criminals in recognition of the huge economic, societal and environmental problems that can result from this crime.

Pipeline tapping, the process most commonly used when siphoning oil, causes a drop in pressure inside the pipe, which, in turn, decreases the speed of delivery and quality of oil. This process also raises significant environmental security concerns as tapping can cause oil leaks, which can lead to long-term environmental damage and can compromise vital water supplies.

Financial loss and environmental danger are not the only problems arising from oil theft; a link has recently been established between the revenue generated from illicit oil trafficking in Central Asia, and the financing of criminal syndicates and radical religious organisations active in the region.

Given the marked increase in terrorist attacks globally, the growing power and presence of these groups is a major concern for Central Asian states.

The 2nd CACOGS 2015 Forum, addressing Central Asia and Caspian Oil & Gas Security, will be organised by IRN on 3 - 4 March 2015 in Almaty – Kazakhstan to gather key security decision makers within the oil industry in Central Asia to discuss the problem of oil theft, encouraging international co-operation.

Covering all issues that raise security concerns, the Forum will facilitate discussions on maritime security in the Caspian Sea, cyber-attacks, pipeline security, labour relations, the growing threat of terrorism and others key areas.

Implications and solutions, future threats and prevention will form the focus of this senior level meeting.

More information can be found on the CACOGS Forum website.

Edited from source by Elizabeth Corner

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/equipment-and-safety/29102014/oil-theft-in-central-asia/