Stop buying petroleum products from unapproved retail outlets, NPA urges motorists

The National Petroleum Authority (NPA) has called on motorists to avoid purchasing petroleum products from unapproved retail outlets, including table tops. These products, often smuggled into the country from Togo via unauthorized routes, are adulterated and can damage vehicles. The NPA cannot guarantee the quality of such products, and therefore, cannot help affected motorists seek redress in case of damage to their vehicles.

To combat the smuggling of petroleum products into the country, the NPA has collaborated with security agencies to conduct swoops in the Ketu South and Ketu North constituencies in the Volta Region, arresting some of the smugglers. The authority also led a delegation to Togo to discuss collaborative efforts to address the issue with authorities responsible for petroleum products and security.

In addition to addressing issues related to smuggling, the NPA’s Head of Planning, Mr. Dominic Aboagye, highlighted that the country’s fuel consumption was largely dependent on imports, which account for 80% of the market. However, local refining by Akwaaba Oil Refinery and Platon refinery, as well as the upcoming completion of the privately owned Sentuo refinery, will support the local market and reduce the country’s dependency on foreign imports.

The NPA’s Director of Economic Regulation and Planning, Mrs. Alpha Welbeck, highlighted the importance of the security of the supply of petroleum products and the requirements for siting filling stations in this year’s education focus. Meanwhile, the Director of Corporate Affairs, Mrs. Maria Edith Oquaye, urged the media to reach out to the NPA for accurate information and clarification on issues related to the downstream petroleum industry.

For the most part, the NPA’s call to avoid unapproved retail outlets and to purchase petroleum products only from approved retail outlets is critical to safeguarding the quality of fuel and preventing damage to vehicles. Additionally, the authority’s efforts to combat smuggling and promote local refining will support the local market and reduce the country’s dependency on foreign imports.