IPNEWS: The government of Liberia is to shortly enforce a ban on illegal sale of petroleum products starting January 15, 2025
The Ministry of Justice (MOJ) of Liberia, through the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) and the Liberia National Police (LNP), has issued a strong warning against the irregular distribution and sale of petroleum products in unauthorized containers such as mayonnaise jars and jerry cans. This practice, observed on street corners, highways, and within communities, has been deemed a violation of the Public Safety Law of Liberia and poses significant risks to lives and properties.
The Ministry emphasized that the sale and distribution of flammable products like gasoline and diesel in makeshift containers are strictly prohibited. Citing the dangers associated with such practices, the Ministry urged all individuals and filling stations engaging in these activities to cease immediately.
Additionally, the Ministry has directed all petroleum tankers to deliver and distribute products solely to government-approved filling stations to ensure compliance with safety regulations.
Ban Effective January 15, 2025
Effective January 15, 2025, the government will enforce a total ban on the sale of flammable substances in unauthorized containers or locations. The Ministry has outlined the following measures:
1. Confiscation of Products: Any petroleum products sold in mayonnaise jars or jerry cans will be seized.
2. Arrests: Individuals or filling station operators caught violating the ban will face immediate arrest and legal action.
Call for Public Cooperation
The Ministry has called on the public to comply with the directive to avoid severe consequences. It also urged communities to report any violations to the relevant authorities to support enforcement efforts.
The Ministry reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring public safety and preventing potential disasters caused by improper handling and sale of flammable materials. This measure is part of a broader effort to regulate the petroleum sector and uphold safety standards across the country.
The public is advised to take the directive seriously and adhere to the January 15, 2025 deadline, as the government remains resolute in its determination to safeguard human lives and properties.
The Ministry of Justice, through the Liberia National Fire Service (LNFS) and the Liberia National Police (LNP), issued a stern directive prohibiting the sale of petroleum products, including gasoline and diesel, in mayonnaise jars and jerry cans across Liberia.
This practice, which violates Liberia’s Public Safety Law, has been deemed a severe hazard to human lives and property. The Ministry described it as a “clear and present danger,” citing the increased risk of fires and accidents caused by the improper handling and storage of flammable substances.
In a press release signed by Colonel G. Wasuwah Bavoul, Sr., Director of the LNFS, and approved by Cllr. N. Oswald Tweh, Minister of Justice and Attorney General, the government called for an immediate end to these illegal fuel sales.
“All individuals and filling stations engaging in the sale of gasoline or fuel oil in mayonnaise jars or jerry cans are hereby warned to desist from this dangerous and illegal activity,” the statement declared.
The Ministry also directed petroleum tankers to limit fuel deliveries to government-approved filling stations only, emphasizing the need to adhere to safety standards and curtail the proliferation of irregular fuel sales.
As part of its enforcement strategy, the Ministry announced a complete ban on the street and community sale of flammable substances, effective January 15, 2025. Violators—including individuals and filling stations—will face arrest, and their products will be confiscated.
This initiative is a key component of the government’s broader agenda to prioritize public safety and mitigate risks associated with hazardous materials.
The Ministry urged residents and businesses to comply with the new regulations to avoid legal consequences and contribute to a safer environment.
