The National Association of Fuel Retailers (Anadegas) says an alleged mafia is operating in the retail fuel market with the backing of officials from the government and of the Ministry of Industry, Commerce and Small Business. Arnulfo Rivas, the Anadegas president, said the mafia makes it possible for more than 1,000 backyard fuel tanks to be selling fuel.
The Ministry challenged Anadegas to identify the officials involved in what they are calling illegal trafficking of fuel in the country. Rivas indicated that the Ministry of Industry and Commerce knows that contraband fuel enters the country at different points, including the Bay of Ocoa, Barahona, and even the Ozama River.
He said he would deliver proof within a few days of the smuggling of fuel. Rivas said these operators are unfair competition and have caused sales to drop by up to 50% in some gas stations.
Anadegas says that the Ministry knows more than they do regarding these back yard tanks since they were all authorized by the ministry itself. He also announced protest actions in Duarte province on Tuesday as part of a series of actions they will carry out.
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El Nacional
13 May 2019