The Customs & Excise Department and the oil industry today signed an agreement to renew the Oil Industry Reward Scheme for another year from October 1.

The scheme, financed by the oil companies, was launched in 1996 to encourage people to provide information on illicit fuel activities.

Under the scheme, the companies contribute $1 million to pay rewards ranging from $3,000 to $160,000 for each case to any person who provides information leading to the seizure and forfeiture of illicit fuel and the conviction of people involved.

Rewards of $114,000 paid since last October

The department said the scheme has been effective in helping combat illicit fuel activities.

Since October last year, rewards totalling $114,000 have been paid for information in eight cases leading to the arrest of 16 people and the seizure of 476,610 litres of illicit fuel.

Information can be given to the department by calling the 24-hour hotline 2545 6182, faxing 2543 4942, writing to GPO Box 1166, or in person.