Hong Kong authorities launched 18 joint operations against illicit refuelling stations this year amid a global surge in energy prices, with the customs chief noting that the practice has become increasingly common in urban areas.

But Commissioner for Customs and Excise Chan Tsz-tat said on Saturday that despite the upwards trend, illegal refuelling was not widespread locally.

“The cost of owning a private vehicle in Hong Kong is very high, and petrol prices here are undoubtedly among the highest...