The Ethiopian Petroleum and Energy Authority has intensified its regulatory oversight, announcing a series of administrative measures against fuel stations found to be defrauding customers through manipulated dispensing meters.
Following a nationwide series of surprise inspections launched on May 29, 2026, the Authority confirmed that 12 fuel stations were operating with inaccurate dispensing pumps, systematically under-measuring fuel for consumers.
The Authority officially announced that disciplinary measures against the identified stations took effect on July 2, 2026. Among the sanctioned entities, three stations have been suspended from receiving fuel shipments for two months, while one station faces a one-month suspension.
An additional six stations have been issued formal warnings. According to officials, the crackdown is focused on ensuring compliance with mandatory digital payment systems and verifying that all dispensing equipment undergoes regular, verified calibration.
Dr. Destaw Mekonnen, Director General of the Petroleum and Energy Authority, stated that the move is essential to uphold the rule of law and protect the public from direct economic exploitation.
"When a consumer pays for one liter of fuel, they should receive one liter. Instead, we have discovered that some stations are dispensing only 800 or 900 milliliters," Dr. Destaw explained.
While acknowledging that there are internationally recognized technical tolerances for evaporation and mechanical variance, the Director General emphasized that any deliberate under-measurement beyond these thresholds is a criminal violation that will not be tolerated.
Addressing concerns raised by motorists regarding potential fuel shortages and service disruptions caused by the suspensions, Dr. Destaw dismissed the notion that the measures would impact the national supply chain.
"It is unjustifiable to shield illegal activities under the pretext of maintaining market stability," he noted. In every city, there are multiple alternative stations available typically three to five in close proximity. The closure of a few non-compliant stations will not create a critical supply shortage.
The Authority has vowed to continue its rigorous monitoring of calibration standards, digital payment integration, and service quality across the sector.
Officials warned that stations neglecting their licensing obligations or engaging in fraudulent practices will face even stiffer legal consequences.
Finally, the Petroleum and Energy Authority has called upon the public to remain vigilant and report any suspected irregularities or fuel dispensing fraud directly to the regulatory body, emphasizing that citizen cooperation is vital to maintaining market integrity and preventing further economic loss.
