The Sunday Mail
Online Reporter
THE Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) has warned unlicensed fuel dealers touting petroleum products on social media platforms.
In a statement on Tuesday, ZERA said fuel retailers who buy petroleum products from unlicensed wholesalers also risk having their licences cancelled.
“It has come to the attention of the Zimbabwe Energy Regulatory Authority (ZERA) that there are some illegal fuel dealers offering fuel for sale to retailers and the public via social media,” reads the statement.
“Trade in petroleum products is a regulated activity which must be conducted in terms of relevant licences and licence conditions.”
No person, other than a licensed petroleum company, is allowed to procure or sell or produce petroleum products in the country in terms of the Petroleum Act.
“Therefore, be advised that it is a serious offence for any unlicensed company to carry out an activity in the petroleum industry without the requisite licence,” said ZERA.
“It is a breach of licence conditions for a licensed petroleum retail company to buy petroleum products from a company that is not licensed to procure/import or wholesale petroleum products.
“The Authority would like to strongly warn that any unlicensed person found trading fuel will be prosecuted.
“In addition, any licensed petroleum company found buying fuel from an unlicensed wholesaler will have their licence cancelled.”
Petroleum retail companies are advised to conduct due diligence by engaging ZERA to verify the authenticity of any company that may be offering fuel for sale in a suspicious manner.
