… but a success thus far – GEA
THE Guyana Energy Agency (GEA) has described its fuel marking programme that evolved as a result of complaints of significant smuggling of fuel, as a success, since its implementation in 2004. In response to several questions posed to the agency, it was noted that: “From 2006 to 2013, the percentage of sites found with significant dilution in at least one tank has progressively decreased from 34% in 2006 to 3% in 2013.”
It was pointed out that the GEA has achieved 29 convictions since the commencement of prosecutions for illegal fuel, since the programme’s implementation.
It was also explained that while the GEA is unsure of the source of this illegal fuel, one may presume that it originates from neighbouring countries such as Suriname, Trinidad and Tobago, and Venezuela. The success of the programme, and the fact that since its implementation there has been a significant drop in fuel smuggling, is testament to the fact that GEA has always strategised about where their presence is needed, according to the agency.
The agency stated that it continuously monitors and re-assesses its strategy to ascertain whether an impact is being made, or whether there is need for change with the aim of ensuring that fuel smuggling is curtailed.
As part of it efforts to combat this issue, in 2007, a multi-sectored “Task Force on Fuel Smuggling and Contraband” was convened under the auspices of the Ministry of Home Affairs to coordinate the efforts of the different law enforcement agencies in the fight against fuel smuggling and contraband. The resulting cooperation between the Guyana Police Force (GPF), Guyana Revenue Authority (GRA), GEA, Guyana Defence Force (GDF) Coast Guard and Customs Anti-Narcotics Unit (CANU) aided in several interdictions of illegal fuel and assistance in capturing, escorting and securing various transport vessels (both land and water).
Cooperation from the GPF in the detention of suspects and the GDF Coast Guard and GRA in joint operations has proven invaluable in combating the illegal fuel trade.
The GEA is also part of the Hinterland Intelligence Committee (HIC) which was organised by the GPF and is chaired by the Commissioner of Police. Members of this committee include the GDF, Civil Aviation Authority, Guyana Geology and Mines Commission (GGMC), Guyana Gold and Diamond Miners Association (GGDMA), GRA, GPF, Association of Aircraft Owners, Ministries of Health and Local Government, Guyana Forestry Commission and the Guyana Women Miners Organisation, among others.
Many issues are discussed at monthly meetings of both the Task Force and HIC, including the issue of fuel smuggling. Additionally, the GPF is usually consulted when there is an emergency or if a tip is received. GEA explained that it usually solicits the support of other enforcement agencies as required.
The fuel marking programme was charged with the responsibility of ensuring that all gasoline, diesel and kerosene were properly ‘marked’ at a known concentration at all legitimate import points, and also collecting and testing samples of fuel from various parts of the country, including wholesalers, retailers, distributors, transporters, commercial consumers and any person in possession of fuel for the relevant markers.
The GEA is cognisant of the fact that the constant monitoring and maintenance of the fuel marking system’s integrity is absolutely necessary for its continued success.
(GINA)