PM forms a committee to probe the Mansoura gas explosion and orders a review of licenses issued since 2016.

Aden, Yemen – Prime Minister Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak announced on Saturday the formation of an investigative committee to probe the recent gas station explosion in Mansoura district, Aden, which resulted in several fatalities, injuries, and material damages. This move follows a direct field visit by the Prime Minister to the explosion site on Friday evening, to assess the damage and understand the incident’s circumstances through discussions with citizens and relevant authorities.

Immediate Response and Investigative Measures

In the aftermath of the tragic event, Prime Minister bin Mubarak issued decree No. 36 of 2024, establishing an investigative committee led by the General Director of the Yemeni Petroleum and Gas Corporation. The committee also includes representatives from the Ministries of Legal Affairs and Human Rights, Justice, Interior (Civil Defense), and Criminal Evidence, along with local authorities from Aden Governorate. Tasked with investigating the explosion’s circumstances at the gas filling station in Mansoura, the committee is expected to submit a comprehensive report of its findings and recommendations to the Prime Minister within five days.

Ensuring Compliance and Safety

Further emphasizing the need for stringent safety measures, the Prime Minister directed the Central Organization for Control and Auditing to deploy a specialized team to review all gas station licenses issued since 2016 by the Yemeni Gas Company. This review aims to verify compliance with legal standards and conditions, with urgent reporting of findings to enable strict actions against any violations.

Prime Minister’s Site Visit and Directives

Dr. Ahmed Awad bin Mubarak personally inspected the explosion site, resulting from a tanker blast at a gas station at the Hashed-Ninety Road junction in Mansoura. He evaluated the emergency response measures to contain the fire, which claimed three lives and left several injured. The Prime Minister ordered a detailed assessment of the damages and emphasized holding accountable any official found issuing permits contrary to residential safety regulations and professional safety standards. He reiterated the paramount importance of community safety and the full responsibility of negligent officials.

Commitment to Safety and Accountability

The Yemeni government’s swift action to investigate the explosion and review gas station licensing reflects a strong commitment to public safety and regulatory compliance. By prioritizing thorough investigation and strict compliance checks, the Prime Minister aims to prevent future incidents and ensure the well-being of Yemen’s citizens.

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