Sri Lanka Police have warned 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, police said it had been observed that some individuals were attempting to improperly stockpile fuel due to public anxiety over regional developments .
The Ceylon Petroleum Corporation has assured that sufficient fuel reserves are available in the country and that the public need not panic or be unduly alarmed, the statement said .
Police said some individuals and groups were organizing the collection of fuel in cans, barrels and other external containers. All police stations have been instructed to take appropriate action in coordination with fuel station management to prevent such practices .
Accordingly, until further notice, fuel should not be dispensed into cans, bottles or any 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 initiated against individuals or groups involved in unlawful hoarding, profiteering by reselling fuel at inflated prices, or spreading false and misleading information regarding fuel availability on social media. (Newswire)