The Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Kudzo Tameklo, has revealed that his outfit is working with various security agencies to ensure the safety of consumers and personnel at fuel stations nationwide.
This collaboration is part of the NPA’s efforts to implement the 24-hour economy in the petroleum sector.
Speaking at a special meeting with the Eastern Regional Minister, Regional Security Heads, and key stakeholders at the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council in Koforidua, Mr. Tameklo stressed the importance of strict regulation and enforcement to protect the petroleum downstream industry from criminal activities.
He pointed out that the petroleum sector is highly susceptible to crimes such as fuel smuggling, illegal siphoning, and fraudulent transactions. “Fuel is a legitimate but highly valuable commodity, making it a target for illicit activities,” he said.
Mr. Tameklo emphasized the need for the active involvement of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), the NPA’s intelligence unit, and other security agencies, including the Police, Customs, and the Fire Service, to combat all forms of fuel-related crimes.
He also revealed plans to provide specialized training for security agencies to enhance their capacity in handling petroleum-related offenses.
The NPA Boss noted that the government’s 24-hour economy initiative could only succeed if the security and safety of consumers and petroleum workers were guaranteed. “Petroleum is a hazardous product, and we cannot afford to overlook safety concerns,” he added.
In line with these plans, the NPA will work closely with the Fire Service and other security agencies to ensure the highest levels of safety and security. This collaboration is especially crucial given the vulnerability of some filling stations during late hours.
Earlier this month, a reported attack by armed robbers on the Kansaworodo branch of the Total fuel station in Sekondi-Takoradi highlighted the need for enhanced security. The robbers, who arrived masked at dawn, were unable to access the safe due to the manager being absent at the time of the attack.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, expressed her full support for the NPA’s initiatives and assured that the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) would cooperate to ensure the NPA’s efforts are successful in the Eastern Region.
She suggested integrating the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) into the NPA’s operations across all regions to bolster security and improve collaboration.
The meeting concluded with a call for deeper cooperation between the NPA, security agencies, and regional authorities to strengthen safety, enforcement, and regulatory compliance in the petroleum industry.
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