A special operation will be launched from today to identify individuals’ illegally storing and selling fuel.
The Police said it is illegal to privately hold and sell fuel as only registered filling stations under the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation are primarily permitted to store and sell fuel.
Speaking to media, Police Media Spokesman SSP Nihal Thalduwa said two such groups were arrested yesterday while raids will be intensified from today.
SSP Thalduwa said it has been observed that the public is purchasing fuel in jerry cans, barrels, bottles, and other canisters.
The Police Media Spokesman said authorities were lenient over the matter due the shortage of fuel and scheduled power cuts, claiming however many individuals are misusing this leniency which have turned to illegal activities.
He said such individuals are re-selling fuel at high-profit margins.
SSP Thalduwa said those in fuel queues for vehicles and other essential matters encounter difficulties due to such actions.
The Police Media Spokesman urged the public to only purchase fuel sufficient for their requirement.
He however added the public is allowed to purchase kerosene oil in jerry cans and bottles in required amounts.
He said 68 individuals have thus far been arrested over the racket while they were found to be in possession of 8,025 litres of petrol and 726 litres of diesel.
