The government has intensified its efforts to curb fuel hoarding, warning that deliberately hiding fuel constitutes economic sabotage.
Dr. James Mataragio, Permanent Secretary at the Ministry of Energy responsible for Petroleum and Gas, has ordered the Energy and Water Utilities Regulatory Authority (EWURA) to conduct special operations targeting traders who deliberately withhold fuel to create artificial shortages.
“Some unscrupulous traders are taking advantage of the current situation by withdrawing fuel from depots in large quantities, storing it, and waiting for prices to rise before selling it at higher rates,” Dr. Mataragio said.
He emphasized that such practices are illegal and that anyone caught will face strict legal action. Traders involved in fuel hoarding have been urged to stop immediately, as their actions disrupt supply and cause scarcity.
“I have instructed EWURA not to spare anyone. If someone is caught hiding fuel, they will face consequences. The Commissioner must ensure that fuel loaded in Dar es Salaam reaches the intended stations as planned,” he added.
Dr. Mataragio noted that some stations have already reported shortages, a direct result of these illegal practices preventing fuel from reaching retail outlets.
Goodluck Shirima, Commissioner for Petroleum and Gas, said the government continues to closely monitor fuel transport and sales nationwide to ensure all fuel reaches stations and citizens receive uninterrupted service.
