Fuel stations warned against deliberately closing early on Wednesday

Fuel station operators have been warned against closing their operations earlier on Wednesday night to make a quick profit following the announcement of an increase in the retail price of petrol and diesel, or risk facing stern action under the Control of Supplies Act 1961.

Domestic Trade, Co-operatives and Consumerism Minister Datuk Seri Hamzah Zainuddin said the ministry had received complaints that certain operators had resorted to this tactic and that investigation on the matter was underway.

"This is an offence...it is the same as hiding controlled items," he told a press conference after launching the 'Food Fiesta 2017' programme jointly organised by Lulu Hypermarket and Departmental Store here on Friday.

Several news portals reported that fuel stations were found to have deliberately closed their operations earlier on Wednesday night compared to normal days with the excuse that they were 'out of petrol'.

The move was said to be linked to the announcement of an increase in RON95 and RON97 petrol prices by four sen, while diesel higher by seven sen, effective 12.01 am Thursday.

-- BERNAMA