TheCable

The Zamfara state government has banned the sale of petrol in jerrycans, stating that the measure is necessary to discourage the activities of bandits.

Zamfara has witnessed a wave of attacks on communities in the state. In one of the most recent attacks, 30 people were reportedly killed after gunmen invaded two LGAs.

While the government did not state exactly how the new directive will curb banditry in the state, reports available indicate that attacks on communities are usually carried out with the use of motorcycles.

In a statement on Saturday, Ibrahim Dosara, Zamfara commissioner of information, said only vehicles should be attended to at petrol stations.

“In furtherance of the efforts and steps being taken by the government of Zamfara state in tackling the recent upsurge in the activities of recalcitrant bandits in the state, the government found it necessary to ban the activities of petroleum products black marketers in the general area of Wanke, Magami, Dansadau, Dangulbi, Dankurmi, Bindin, Munhaye, Kizarah, kunchin Kalgo and their surroundings with immediate effect, until further notice,” Dosara said.

“All filling stations within the affected areas are hereby warned to desist from selling the petroleum products to jerry cans or any other containers. Only moving vehicles are allowed to take petroleum products from the filling stations, henceforth.

“NUPENG and other associations on petroleum products are directed to advise their members to shun any act capable of sabotaging this government order.

“Security agencies are by this order and announcement, directed to ensure full compliance. Anybody found violating this order should be dealt with, accordingly.”