The government has advised the Police to immediately arrest individuals disrupting the distribution and supply of fuel at filling stations and individuals siphoning fuel after topping up tanks and re-joining fuel queues.
Minister of Energy Kanchana Wijesekera speaking during the weekly Cabinet media briefing this morning said organised groups are visiting fuel stations and are riling people already agitated by having to wait long hours, causing distress.
The Minister requested the public to remain vigilant of outsiders who arrive at filling stations without the intention of obtaining fuel.
Minister Wijesekera said it has been observed that fuel is being siphoned from vehicles and re-joining queues, adding that this was observed at the Lanka IOC filling station in Narahenpita.
He revealed, the fuel that is collected is brought together behind Shalika Grounds and is being resold while the three-wheelers re-join queues.
The Minister noted that steps are underway to arrest such persons.
Minister Wijesekera also requested the public to understand the climate in the country given the economic crisis including the power and energy crisis.
The Minister noted that fuel is being ordered based on the demand during the past few months adding that the demand for fuel has risen as it is being stored to generate power for businesses, factories, and even homes.
He said efforts are underway to ensure a 24-hour supply of power.
However, Minister Wijesekera said a fuel racket is also underway as siphoned fuel is being mixed and sold at higher prices.
The Minister added that regardless of the number of fuel shipments that arrive in the island, such illegal activities will not contribute to the supply of fuel and will not bring an end to the queuing era.
