On Wednesday, the Undersecretary of the Libyan Interior Ministry of the Libyan Parliament-designated government in East Libya, Faraj Qaim announced robust measures to combat the rampant issue of fuel smuggling.
In a statement, the ministry announced the immediate confiscation of trucks that were smuggling fuel outside, or into desert regions. This crackdown extends to fuel distribution stations, which bypass direct sales to citizens, now facing closure and sealing.
This firm stance was publicized during Qaim’s recent inspection tour of the Brega Company’s Ras Al-Mungar depot.
The visit, detailed by the Interior Ministry highlighted the efficient functioning of the depot. The official assured a steady supply of petrol and diesel to various cities and regions, expected to commence within the next 48 hours.
A key part of Qaim’s directive includes the deployment of specialized security patrols from the Ministry of Interior, at the depot.
These patrols are tasked with overseeing the transportation of fuel trucks, ensuring their safe transit to assigned distribution centers without diversion.
He also warned against any attempts to disrupt the supply chain for illegal gain, underscoring the severity of exploiting truck drivers, whose livelihood depends on these vehicles.
This move is under directives from Field Marshal Khalifa Haftar, Commander-in-Chief of the Libyan National Army (LNA). It is a specific task assigned by Prime Minister, Osama Hammad to the ministry officials.
The mission involves supervising the movement of fuel and gas trucks from Ras Al-Mungar to their designated distribution points, in line with Cabinet Resolution No. 20 of 2024. This includes dismantling any illegal weighing scales to ensure compliance.
The Libyan government’s actions signify a concerted effort to address the longstanding problem of fuel smuggling.
Through implementing these measures, the government aims not only to stabilize the fuel market, but also to ensure that this vital resource is distributed legally and efficiently, safeguarding the rights and needs of the Libyan people.