LUANDA: The National Police (PN) seized 462,449 liters of fuel from October 8 to 28 this year along the borders with Namibia, Zambia, and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) due to smuggling activities. This significant operation highlights ongoing efforts to combat illegal fuel trafficking in the region.
According to Angola Press News Agency, a source from the police force disclosed on Tuesday that the operation led to the arrest of 19 suspects. These individuals have been referred to the Criminal Investigation Service (SIC) and the Attorney General’s Office (PGR) for the initiation of criminal proceedings, underscoring the seriousness of the smuggling issue.
The operation revealed that the border with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) was the most impacted, accounting for 96% of the fuel smuggling cases. This was followed by Zambia with 3% and Namibia with 1% of the cases, indicating a significant concentration of smuggling activities along the DRC border.
The seizures and detentions were conduct
ed by the Border Guard Police and Customs Tax Police forces, demonstrating a coordinated effort by law enforcement agencies to address and curb the illegal fuel trade in these regions.