Libya's Interior Ministry closes 490 petrol stations due to fuel smuggling

This action is part of a security plan to address Libya's ongoing fuel crisis and ensure citizen needs are met. The decision was made during a meeting with committee members, oil company representatives, and security authorities to discuss fuel distribution. Trabelsi highlighted the need for a unified effort from the government, oil sector, companies, and citizens to resolve the crisis.

He also mentioned that approval has been given for approximately 365 petrol stations to operate based on actual needs. The Minister vowed to combat the manipulation of fuel and diesel supplies and inflated black-market prices, which benefit smugglers at the expense of citizens and the national economy. Libya has faced recurring fuel crises, exacerbated by electricity cuts increasing demand for diesel for generators.

Analysts attribute the persistent issue to fuel subsidies, a legacy of the Qaddafi regime, and the weak state's inability to combat smuggling effectively.