The Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Kudzo Tameklo Esq., has vowed to crack down on the illegal fuel trade, warning that individuals or groups involved in such activities will not be spared. He made this declaration while addressing the Bono Regional Security Council (REGSEC) as part of his familiarization tour in the region. Mr. Tameklo highlighted key challenges in the petroleum sector, including fuel smuggling, the sale of adulterated fuel, operating with expired licenses, and failing to meet safety regulations. He stressed that the NPA would enforce strict measures to ensure that all fuel transactions are conducted legally, urging industry players to comply with existing laws. According to him, these illegal activities not only harm the economy but also pose serious risks to consumers and businesses. He further appealed to regional ministers to refrain from shielding individuals engaged in fuel-related crimes, warning that some traders use political affiliations to influence regulatory decisions. The NPA, he assured, would not tolerate such interference, as it undermines efforts to restore economic stability under President Mahama’s administration.
Mr. Tameklo underscored the importance of a collaborative approach in tackling fuel-related illegalities, noting that joint efforts by the NPA, National Security, and other enforcement agencies have led to a significant reduction in petroleum supply leakages, including export dumping. He explained that previous enforcement actions had helped to curb smuggling, but more work needed to be done to fully eliminate the threat. The NPA, he said, remains committed to working with security agencies to monitor fuel distribution networks and shut down unauthorized operators. He emphasized that allowing illegal fuel sales to continue would not only cause revenue losses for the government but also affect the quality of fuel available to consumers. He also called on the public to report suspicious fuel transactions, as community involvement is critical in the fight against unlawful trading practices. The NPA, he reassured, would take all necessary steps to ensure that the petroleum sector operates under strict safety and quality standards to protect consumers and businesses from substandard products.
During his tour, the NPA boss visited key stakeholders, including the Bono Regional Coordinating Council and the Omanhene of Sunyani, seeking their cooperation in addressing fuel supply challenges. Bono Regional Minister, Joseph Addae Akwaboah, assured the NPA of REGSEC’s full support, emphasizing that security agencies in the region were ready to work closely with the Authority to prevent future occurrences of illegal activities in the petroleum industry. He reiterated that illegal fuel trading not only threatens the economy but also endangers lives, making it imperative for all stakeholders to remain vigilant. The visit was part of a broader initiative by the NPA to engage regional authorities, assess the state of petroleum distribution, and implement measures to strengthen compliance across the industry. As the fight against illegal fuel operations continues, the NPA remains firm in its resolve to uphold the integrity of the petroleum sector, ensuring that only legitimate businesses operate within the industry.
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