The Minister of Oil and Gas, Mohammed Oun, said that the quantities of fuel transferred to the south are sufficient to cover local consumption, but the problem is smuggling operations.
Oun added in a press statement that the transferred quantities are beyond their responsibility after they leave the warehouses, stressing that fuel smuggling operations are a role entrusted to the security authorities and not within their authorities.
Oun indicated that they contacted the protesters in Fezzan and received their demands, stressing that the demands would be transferred to the Prime Minister because most of them fall within the scope of the government, and they are awaiting a response.
He also confirmed that there is a production shortage equivalent to 250,000 barrels per day of Libyan crude, adding that this causes a decrease in the state’s income, and negatively affects relations with countries importing crude, given that Sharara crude is of high quality and one of the most expensive types of crude.
The Minister of Oil and Gas pointed out that they are continuing to work on the South Refinery, but “they need time to complete it," stressing that the ministry is not in favor of using oil as a pressure card to demand rights.
On Sunday, the National Oil Corporation declared a state of force majeure on Sharara oil field, days after protesters closed it.
