Amid rising global crude oil prices, South Africa's Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources reassures citizens of a stable fuel supply and warns against panic-buying.
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Amid rising global crude oil prices, South Africa's Department of Mineral and Petroleum Resources reassures citizens of a stable fuel supply and warns against panic-buying.
This comes as ongoing geopolitical tensions in the Middle East have pushed international crude oil prices above $100 per barrel, creating uncertainty in global energy markets.
It also comes as messages and social media posts continue to circulate, suggesting fuel shortages and imminent price hikes.
In a statement, the department said any local delays were small and operational, not a national problem, and urged people to buy fuel as usual and trust official information.
"While there may be isolated localised logistical challenges affecting the movement or availability of fuel in certain areas, these are operational in nature and do not constitute a national supply shortage. These issues are being actively managed through established industry and regulatory channels," the statement read.
"It is therefore incorrect and misleading to link such isolated domestic logistical matters to broader geopolitical developments. Such claims risk creating unnecessary alarm and confusion among the public".
The department also called on the public not to spread unverified reports or give in to panic-buying.
"Calls for the public to rush to the pumps are irresponsible. They place undue pressure on supply systems, congestion at service stations, and anxiety among consumers". The statement added.
"The Department calls all organisations, public representatives, commentators and social media users to act responsibly and to refrain from spreading unverified or speculative claims regarding fuel supply and fuel price developments".
The department also urged the public to continue buying fuel as usual and to rely on official government sources for accurate information.
"Members of the public are encouraged to continue purchasing fuel in the normal course and to rely on official government communication for accurate and verified information"