The Public Utilities Regulatory Authority has launched an investigation into reports circulating online that a vessel allegedly carrying contaminated diesel rejected in Senegal is heading to The Gambia.

PURA said it was aware of reports concerning a petroleum tanker reportedly denied entry or rejected at the Port of Dakar before allegedly proceeding towards the Port of Banjul.

The regulator said it is treating the matter seriously and has begun working with national and international stakeholders to establish the facts.

“PURA takes these reports seriously and is actively investigating the matter,” the authority said.

“We are working closely with relevant stakeholders, including the Ministry of Petroleum, Energy and Mines, the Gambia Revenue Authority (GRA), fuel depots in the country, and international partners, to ascertain the facts surrounding the alleged vessel and its contents.”

The statement follows claims widely shared on social media regarding the tanker YASA ORION, which was alleged to be carrying a cargo of contaminated Automotive Gas Oil (AGO), commonly known as diesel.

According to the online reports, the vessel was allegedly rejected in Senegal after tests reportedly detected contamination in its cargo and was subsequently heading to Banjul.

The claims prompted calls for authorities, including PURA, the police, the navy and petroleum sector operators, to investigate the vessel before any fuel could enter the Gambian market.

While not confirming the allegations, PURA stressed that all petroleum products imported into the country must meet national safety and quality requirements.

“As the regulatory body mandated to oversee the petroleum downstream sector in The Gambia, PURA remains strongly committed to ensuring that all petroleum products entering the country strictly adhere to established national standards of safety, quality, and environmental compliance,” the statement said.

“PURA will not compromise on the safety of consumers or the integrity of our fuel supply chain.”

The authority appealed for calm and urged the public to avoid speculation while investigations are ongoing.

“We urge the public to remain calm and refrain from speculation while the investigation is being dealt with accordingly,” PURA said.

The regulator added that it is closely monitoring developments and promised to provide further updates once verified information becomes available.

The development comes amid heightened public attention on the country’s fuel supply chain, with authorities seeking to reassure consumers that any petroleum products entering The Gambia will be subjected to the necessary regulatory scrutiny before being released onto the market.

By Adama Makasuba