The Chief Executive of the National Petroleum Authority (NPA), Godwin Edudzi Tameklo, has stated that in its bid to implement a 24-hour economy in the petroleum sector, the NPA will collaborate with various security agencies to ensure the safety of consumers and personnel at fuel stations across the country.
On Wednesday, March 26, 2025, at a special meeting with the Eastern Regional Minister, regional security heads, and key stakeholders at the Eastern Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) in Koforidua, Mr. Tameklo emphasized the importance of strict regulation and enforcement to protect the petroleum downstream industry from criminal activities.
He noted that the petroleum sector is highly susceptible to criminal activities, including fuel smuggling, illegal siphoning, and fraudulent transactions.
The NPA Chief Executive added that fuel is a legitimate but highly valuable commodity, making it a target for illicit activities.
“We will need the active involvement of the National Intelligence Bureau (NIB), alongside the NPA’s intelligence unit and other security agencies like the Police, Customs, and Fire Service, to combat all forms of fuel-related crimes,” he said.
Mr. Tameklo hinted at the NPA’s plans to provide specialized training for security agencies to enhance their capacity in tackling petroleum-related offenses.
He stressed that the government’s plan to roll out a 24-hour economy could only succeed if the security and safety of consumers and petroleum workers were assured.
“Petroleum is a hazardous product, and we cannot afford to overlook safety concerns. The NPA will work closely with the Fire Service and other security agencies to ensure the highest levels of safety and security,” he emphasized.
The NPA Chief’s call for security collaboration is crucial, given the vulnerability of some filling stations late at night.
Earlier this month, masked armed robbers attacked the Kansaworodo branch of the Total fuel station in the Sekondi-Takoradi Metropolis of the Western Region at dawn.
Fortunately, the keys to the safe were with the manager, who was not on the premises at the time, so the robbers left empty-handed.
The Eastern Regional Minister, Rita Akosua Adjei Awatey, pledged the support of the Regional Coordinating Council (RCC) and assured the NPA of her full cooperation in ensuring safety and regulatory compliance in the petroleum sector across the Eastern Region.
She also proposed integrating the Regional Security Council (REGSEC) into the NPA’s operations nationwide to strengthen security and improve collaboration.
Additionally, she commended the NPA’s commitment to consumer protection and regulatory enforcement.