Colombo, March 3, 2025 — Sri Lankan authorities have initiated an investigation into a group claiming to be fuel distributors, who have allegedly been causing disruptions to the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation's (CPC) fuel distribution operations. The complaint, lodged with the police, highlights the group's actions as part of a protest against the CPC’s recent decision to abolish a 3% commission given to petroleum separators in fuel distribution.
The Police stated that the group’s actions were aimed at creating inconvenience for both the government and the public. In response, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has begun a probe to determine the extent of the disruption.
A warning has been issued by the Police, stating that necessary actions will be taken against individuals found to be intentionally causing public inconvenience over the ongoing fuel issue. The police emphasized their commitment to maintaining order and ensuring smooth fuel distribution amidst the controversy.
Meanwhile, the Distributors Association formally appealed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for intervention. TM Sendanayaka, a spokesman for the association, voiced concerns about the viability of their businesses due to the government's decision. "He must give us a hearing. It will be difficult for us to carry on with our business due to this decision," Sendanayaka said.
Despite the unrest, JD Rajakaruna, the Chairperson of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, reassured the public that the country has adequate fuel reserves, with enough stocks to last for six months. Rajakaruna stressed that there was no need for panic buying, as the government would not reconsider its decision on the commission.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to resolve the dispute without further disruptions to the country's fuel supply.
The Police stated that the group’s actions were aimed at creating inconvenience for both the government and the public. In response, the Criminal Investigations Department (CID) has begun a probe to determine the extent of the disruption.
A warning has been issued by the Police, stating that necessary actions will be taken against individuals found to be intentionally causing public inconvenience over the ongoing fuel issue. The police emphasized their commitment to maintaining order and ensuring smooth fuel distribution amidst the controversy.
Meanwhile, the Distributors Association formally appealed to President Anura Kumara Dissanayake for intervention. TM Sendanayaka, a spokesman for the association, voiced concerns about the viability of their businesses due to the government's decision. "He must give us a hearing. It will be difficult for us to carry on with our business due to this decision," Sendanayaka said.
Despite the unrest, JD Rajakaruna, the Chairperson of the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation, reassured the public that the country has adequate fuel reserves, with enough stocks to last for six months. Rajakaruna stressed that there was no need for panic buying, as the government would not reconsider its decision on the commission.
The investigation continues as authorities seek to resolve the dispute without further disruptions to the country's fuel supply.