Illegal fuel seized on Essequibo Coast

…local businessman implicated

Officers from the Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) have seized 300 barrels of illegal fuel suspected to be transported for a popular businessman in Region Two. The illegal fuel was intercepted at Airy Hall at a local wharf suspected to be from Venezuela.

Information revealed that officers from GEA were tipped off about the illegal operations and so journeyed to Region Two and questioned five men who were on the boat which housed the fuel. The men disclosed that they were merely transporting the fuel for an Anna Regina businessman.

Information revealed the boat was seized by officers and the fuel removed. The Police were also alerted by the GEA and a joint investigation has commenced.

GEA has been increasing its efforts in the fight against fuel smuggling. Only recently the entity reported that a multi-stakeholder approach has greatly aided in curbing the scourge of fuel smuggling.

The agency noted last Monday that the “hard work” of its inspectors, in collaboration with sister agencies, which form the Task Force on Fuel Smuggling and Contraband, conducted 16 joint operations.

This Task Force comprises the Guyana Police Force, Guyana Defence Force Coast Guard, Guyana Revenue Authority and the Customs and Anti-Narcotics Unit.

It noted that as at June 30, 2016, six prosecutions were engaging the Courts. However, GEA pointed out that it is in receipt of compensation from offenders.

Fuel smuggling refers to the importation and distribution of petroleum and petroleum products, particularly petrol (gasoline) and dieseline, by both legitimate and illegitimate businesses without paying the necessary taxes.