Dispensing fuel into bottles, cans, or containers is prohibited until further notice.

The Sri Lanka Police strongly urges the public to refrain from unnecessarily hoarding fuel, citing the current unstable situation in the Middle East region. A statement issued by the Police Media Division on March 01 indicates that it has been observed that some individuals are attempting to improperly store fuel due to public fear regarding these regional developments.

Commenting on this matter, the Ceylon Petroleum Corporation emphasizes that there are sufficient fuel reserves in the country, and therefore, the public should not panic in any way. However, information has been reported that certain individuals and groups are systematically hoarding fuel using various external containers, including barrels and cans. Instructions have already been given to all police stations island-wide to take necessary steps in collaboration with fuel station management to promptly prevent such activities.

Accordingly, the issuance of fuel into bottles, cans, or any other external containers is completely prohibited until further notice. However, this prohibition will not apply to legitimate and essential purposes such as fishing vessels, factories, agricultural activities, service stations, and essential domestic needs.

The Police Media Division further warns that strict legal action will be taken against individuals or groups who violate these instructions by illegally hoarding fuel and making undue profits by selling them at inflated prices. In addition, the Police will initiate special investigations and enforce the law against individuals who spread false and misleading information regarding fuel acquisition through social media networks.