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A recent scandal involving a gas station attendant stealing and reselling government fuel has led to a widespread inspection of all petrol stations in North Korea’s capital, Pyongyang.
The announcement of this sweeping inspection was made by state media on Thursday, as the government seeks to address the serious breach of trust and restore confidence in its fuel distribution system.
The incident came to light when authorities discovered that an employee at a state-run petrol station had been pilfering fuel supplies and selling them on the black market. This illegal operation not only contravened North Korea’s stringent control measures but also highlighted vulnerabilities in the country’s fuel management system. The attendant’s actions are reported to have caused significant disruptions in fuel availability, exacerbating the already strained supply situation.
In response to the theft, the government has ordered an immediate and thorough audit of all petrol stations within Pyongyang. The inspection aims to uncover any further instances of malfeasance and ensure that all fuel transactions are conducted transparently and by state regulations. Officials are also implementing stricter oversight measures and enhanced security protocols at fuel distribution points to prevent future occurrences.
State media has emphasized the severity of the situation, portraying the theft as a serious offence against the state and public welfare. The government has vowed to hold those responsible accountable and to take decisive action to safeguard the integrity of its fuel supply chain.
The inspection is expected to be extensive, involving both physical checks of fuel inventory and reviews of operational procedures. This development underscores the ongoing challenges North Korea faces in managing its economy and maintaining control over critical resources amidst a backdrop of international sanctions and domestic pressures.