Thu, 22 Jun 2017 10:45:45 +0000
…it’s business as usual at Lake Petroleum installations despite ban
By BENNIE MUNDANDO
LAKE Petroleum has defied a ban imposed on it by the Energy Regulation Board (ERB) from distributing, importing, and exporting petroleum products pending further enforcement action over its illegal importation of fuel.
The company, which has been engulfed in a storm over its operations which have also attracted the attention of the Zambia Revenue Authority, has continued operating its filling stations where it was selling fuel cheaply yesterday.
And the Petroleum Transporters Association of Zambia (PTAZ) has challenged the Drug Enforcement Commission (DEC) to investigate money laundering allegations against the company.
On Tuesday, ERB director for consumer and public affairs Agness Phiri, told the Daily Nation that the company had been directed to stop its operations until the matter was exhaustively dealt with and concluded.
Ms. Phiri said despite a public portrayal from some stakeholders that the case was not receiving the adequate attention it deserved, ERB was on top of things to ensure that nothing was swept under the carpet.
“We wish to advise that the matter regarding Lake Petroleum is receiving active consideration. Further, Lake Petroleum has been directed to stop distributing, importing and exporting petroleum products pending further enforcement.
“Members of the public and interested parties will be advised of the final outcome upon completion of the necessary regulatory interventions,” Ms. Phiri said.
But spot checks on Lake Petroleum installations yesterday found most of its filling stations in Lusaka, Ndola and Kapiri Mposhi open to the public and selling fuel at 10 ngwee less than what other service stations were charging.
The Daily Nation yesterday bought petrol at its service station in Lusaka’s Kabangwe area at K12.40 per litre while at its facility in Lilayi near G-Greens, the commodity is even cheaper as it is fetching K12.35.
Meanwhile, all its facilities in Kabwe and Ndola’s Masala, Hillcrest and Indeni were also found open and operating as usual.
And PTAZ secretary general Benson Tembo wondered why DEC was not investigating the matter when it was clear that the company was allegedly involved in money laundering activities through its illegal imports.
“We expected that by now investigations into money laundering activities should have been concluded by DEC. Are they waiting until the President forces them to do so?”
