Tripoli: The Minister of Interior in charge of the Government of National Unity, Major General Imad Al-Trabelsi, has highlighted the significant challenges Libya has faced in recent years due to rampant fuel smuggling operations. During a press conference held today, he emphasized that the smuggling of subsidized fuel has imposed a heavy financial burden on the state.
According to Libyan News Agency, Al-Trabelsi stated that the ongoing efforts of the Fuel and Gas Crisis Treatment Committee are crucial in addressing the detrimental impact of these illegal practices on the Libyan economy. He underscored the necessity of confronting smuggling operations to prevent further harm.
Al-Trabelsi also noted that the proliferation of weapons has exacerbated fuel smuggling during past years of chaos. He credited the committee’s diligent work, in collaboration with security directorates, for addressing several smuggling-related issues. The Minister highlighted that the price of a barrel of fuel has soared to 120 dinars
on the black market in southern Libya.
Further, Al-Trabelsi reported that following the closure of numerous fuel stations in various regions and enhanced monitoring of those still operational, fuel availability has improved significantly. He revealed that 380 million liters of fuel have been supplied from a total requirement of 680 million liters. Current efforts are focused on the capital, Tripoli, with plans to extend operations to neighboring regions and cities. Al-Trabelsi stressed that the committee’s work is dedicated solely to national service, ensuring fuel availability for citizens without tribal or regional biases.