Source: O Globo Online - RJ - 25/09/2009

RIO - At least three gas stations were closed on Friday morning during an operation by the Public Order Secretariat. According to information from the agency, the establishments were closed due to adulteration of fuel and lack of environmental license. The other establishments inspected by the shock of order were functioning within the legal norms.

The action, which took place in conjunction with the National Petroleum Agency (ANP), was carried out in neighborhoods in the North and South, in addition to Barra da Tijuca. In addition to the three gas stations that were closed, one establishment had its operating license revoked by the city. Nine posts were inspected.

The special secretary of Public Order, Rodrigo Bethlem, clarified that the license for a post is given for the sale of fuel, be it alcohol or gasoline.

- At the moment it is being adulterated, what is being marketed is neither one thing nor the other. It is a pure crime. We will revoke the permit of all the stations that the ANP informs us that there is adulteration of fuel. This is a serious crime, which harms the consumer and also helps to pollute the environment more and more - he said.

The ANP's inspection coordinator, Fernando Martins, stressed the importance of City Hall's participation in the action against gas stations that adulterate fuel:

- With the support of the City Hall, we have made enforcement more difficult. We show that those who choose illegality, adulteration may have their activity canceled.