The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has announced a reward of up to Tk 100,000 for providing information about illegal stockpiling and smuggling of fuel oil.
This information was disclosed on Monday by the Energy and Mineral Resources Division under the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources.
According to the division, BPC has decided to award up to Tk 100,000 to individuals who assist by providing accurate information to local authorities regarding illegal hoarding and smuggling of fuel. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential. The concerned Deputy Commissioner will ensure the disbursement of the reward. This financial incentive will be open to all individuals, organizations, and institutions, and the payment will be made by BPC.
The Energy Divisions hope that this initiative will make the public more alert and aware about illegal stockpiling and smuggling. As a result, it is expected that artificial crises caused by such activities can largely be prevented.
Following the outbreak of conflict involving Iran, Israel, and the United States, instability has emerged in the country’s fuel market. Long queues have been observed at filling stations, and people are still having to wait long time to purchase fuel for their vehicles.
Fearing a possible price hike or shortage, many people have bought fuel in excess, while some have stockpiled it illegally.
Although the government has repeatedly stated that there is no shortage of fuel and that prices will not be increased, the situation has not yet normalized.
To address the issue, mobile courts are being operated, and liaison (tag) officers have been appointed for each filling station. The reward announcement has now been added as a further measure.
According to BPC data, fuel sales in recent days have nearly doubled compared to normal levels.
The Energy Division also stated that due to the ongoing special situation in the Middle East, instability has been observed in global fuel supply and market management. As international fuel prices have risen sharply, a group of unscrupulous traders has been hoarding fuel imported for the public and selling it at higher prices instead of the government-set rates. Field administration has already taken action against several such groups. Despite this, the trend of such unethical practices has increased at an alarming rate.
Considering the situation, the government has taken the initiative to offer rewards to ensure the proper and balanced use of fuel imported at high costs.