In a groundbreaking initiative, representatives from the Petroleum Fund and the Lesotho Mounted Police Service (LMPS) yesterday convened in Maseru to enhance law enforcement capabilities in fuel price compliance.
This first capacity building workshop marked a significant step towards bridging the gap between law enforcement and the petroleum sector.
Lebohang Mokhoali, the Petroleum Fund head of operations, outlined the pressing challenges facing the country, including illegal importation of petroleum products and pricing manipulations that undermine government regulations.
These issues threaten the integrity of the fuel market and also pose safety, health, and environmental risks to the public.
Advocate Atang Nchoba, head of corporate affairs, underscored the laws and regulations governing the petroleum industry, emphasizing their critical role in maintaining fair practices.
The workshop focused on equipping police officers with essential knowledge about compliance issues related to fuel pricing, enabling them to effectively enforce the relevant laws and regulations.
Participants engaged in discussions surrounding the complexities of the petroleum market, including price elasticity and market demand, with a strong emphasis on practical applications through real-world case studies.
By examining historical regulatory failures, the officers gained insights into the importance of stringent enforcement and oversight.
The collaborative effort between the Petroleum Fund and the LMPS signifies a commitment to enhancing regulatory compliance within the petroleum sector, ultimately contributing to a safer and more transparent fuel pricing environment in Lesotho.