PNG to investigate jet fuel cooking sales

14/03/2008 22:17:25

Papua New Guinea's Transport minister, Don Polye, has called for an investigation into the alleged use and sale of jet fuel for cooking in the PNG highlands, as fuel prices increase.

Our correspondent in Port Moresby, Firmin Nanol, reports Mr Don Polye says he's been told people living in Mt Hagen in the Western Highlands are buying A1 Jet fuel from illegal street vendors for cooking and lighting.

He has urged authorities to investigate allegations employees' of aviation companies steal and sell jet fuel to locals.

The PNG consumer watch officer, Joseph Cajestan, says the price increase in kerosene, mainly used by PNG households for cooking and lighting could lead to such illegal activity.

But he has warned people not to buy or use the jet fuel.

"There is no direct correlation to say that people are moving towards A1 jet fuel because of the increase in the price of kerosene, fuel that is not meant for cooking," he said.

"It is for the jets, it's for the plane."

He has called on PNG authorities to arrest people selling jet fuel to locals in PNG's Western highlands.

Produced by Radio Australia and Australia Network