BMCRF inspects restaurants diverting subsidised butane gas
By the AFREEQUE newsroom, based on Netafrique
The Mobile Brigade for Economic Control and Fraud Suppression (BMCRF) carried out surprise inspections in the butane gas sector in Burkina Faso, targeting restaurant owners first. According to its general coordinator Sanibè Faho, several establishments were illegally using subsidised 1 to 12.5 kg cylinders reserved for households, and inspections will be stepped up.
The Mobile Brigade for Economic Control and Fraud Suppression (BMCRF) of Burkina Faso carried out a series of surprise inspections in the butane gas sector on Tuesday morning. According to its general coordinator, Sanibè Faho, several restaurants were caught illegally using subsidised cylinders.
Under the regulations, cylinders of 1 to 12.5 kg are reserved for domestic household use, at a price subsidised by the state. Cylinders of 15 kg and above are intended for commercial and professional activities, without subsidy. The BMCRF targeted restaurant owners and commercial operators as a priority, as household consumption rises with the approach of the cooler season.
According to the brigade, these diversions cause artificial shortages and speculation to the detriment of households. Inspections will be stepped up and extended to transporters and unlicensed resellers. Citizens can report fraudulent practices on 80 00 11 84, 80 00 11 85 and 80 00 11 86.
These inspections follow the closure of maquis bars and the seizure of expired products in Ouagadougou, announced on 6 November. On 26 October, five shops were closed for illegal pricing.
