The office of the food safety commission under China's State Council announced on Sunday the results of a joint investigation into the reported improper use of tanker trucks in the transportation of edible oil.

This investigation, which began on July 9, was carried out by multiple ministry-level authorities in north China's Hebei Province, Tianjin Municipality and Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region as well as northwest China's Shaanxi Province.

The investigation uncovered that the use of tanker trucks for transporting edible oil was illegal and constituted a criminal act. As a result, authorities have called for severe punishment for those involved. Two drivers have been identified as participants in these activities and will now face criminal charges. Law enforcement agencies are also planning to take precautionary measures against such activities.

In addition to the drivers, five other individuals, including truck owners, are under scrutiny and could face criminal prosecution. Their cases will be transferred to the police if further criminal activity is suspected. Three others will face administrative penalty of 10-day detentions in accordance with relevant laws.

The investigation report also revealed that seven companies associated with the illegal transportation will be subject to administrative penalties, including fines and the confiscation of any illegal profits.

In response to the findings, the local discipline inspection authority in Xingtai City, Hebei Province, where the trucks are registered, will investigate possible negligence or inaction by public officials.

Authorities also launched full-chain investigations nationwide, looking into every step of the transportation process to prevent similar incidents. According to the report, no similar problems have been discovered elsewhere in the nationwide probe.

(Cover via CFP)