Black-market fuel dealers risk arrest as MERA and police launch a nationwide crackdown on illegal petroleum trading, warning that offenders will face prosecution.
In a joint statement that Malawi24 has seen , the two institutions warned individuals and businesses involved in the illegal storage, transportation, distribution and sale of petroleum products that they would face the law.
The crackdown targets those handling regulated energy products without the required licences and approvals.
MERA and police said illegal petroleum trading threatens human life, property and the environment, making enforcement necessary to ensure fuel is handled and sold safely.
The authorities have also warned licensed filling stations to observe safety procedures when receiving fuel deliveries.
The measures include barricading fuel offloading areas, prohibiting smoking and open flames, switching off vehicle engines and observing restrictions on mobile phone use in designated areas.
The two institutions have urged all petroleum businesses to comply with licensing and safety requirements, warning that violations could lead to legal action.