Over 100,000 Liters of Kerosene Seized from Bus Owners in Sri Lanka
Translated from Sinhala, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Authorities seized approximately 107,000 liters of kerosene illegally stored at the homes of two bus owners in the Waduruwa area.
- The bus owners are suspected of using kerosene instead of diesel in their buses to profit from the lower price.
- Police stated that using kerosene causes significant environmental damage and public nuisance, making the activity illegal.
Authorities in Waduruwa have seized a substantial quantity of kerosene, approximately 107,000 liters, illegally stored at the residences of two local bus owners. The operation, which took place on July 4, 2026, uncovered the illicit fuel stash, raising concerns about its intended use.
We received information that they were using kerosene instead of diesel to operate the buses.
Police revealed that initial information suggests the bus owners were using the cheaper kerosene as a substitute for diesel in their vehicles. This practice, driven by the significant price difference between the two fuels, allows operators to generate higher profits. However, the use of kerosene in buses is not only illegal but also poses serious risks.
Because kerosene is cheaper than diesel, it is possible to make a large profit.
Law enforcement emphasized that operating buses with kerosene leads to considerable environmental damage and public disturbance. The seizure highlights the authorities' efforts to crack down on illegal fuel usage that compromises public safety and environmental integrity, underscoring the illegality and detrimental consequences of such activities.
However, operating with kerosene causes significant environmental damage and public nuisance, making this an illegal act.
Originally published by Lankadeepa in Sinhala. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.