Sri Lanka Police have warned the public against the unnecessary collection and stockpiling of fuel amid concerns over the current unstable situation in the Middle East.
In a statement issued by the Police Media Division on March 1, authorities said it had been observed that certain individuals were attempting to improperly stockpile fuel due to public anxiety over regional developments.
The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation (CPC) has assured that sufficient fuel reserves are available in the country and that there is no need for panic or undue alarm, the statement added.
Police noted that some individuals and groups were organizing the collection of fuel in cans, barrels and other external containers. Accordingly, all police stations have been instructed to take appropriate action in coordination with fuel station management to prevent such practices.
Until further notice, fuel will not be dispensed into cans, bottles or other containers, except for legitimate requirements related to fishing vessels, industrial operations, workplaces, agricultural activities and essential domestic purposes.
The Police Media Division further warned that investigations will be conducted and legal action taken against individuals or groups engaged in unlawful hoarding, reselling fuel at inflated prices, or spreading false and misleading information regarding fuel availability on social media.
Authorities urged the public to act responsibly and avoid contributing to unnecessary disruptions in fuel distribution.
