KINGSTON, Jamaica — Following the interception and seizure of a Honduran-registered vessel over the weekend by Jamaica authorities, Minister of Science, Energy and Technology Dr Andrew Wheatley has requested a brief on the matter.

The vessel was reportedly laden with fuel in Venezuela.

In a news release today, the energy minister expressed his concern over the matter.

“The seizure this past weekend of what is reported to be a vessel originating from Venezuela, laden with fuel, is a matter I take particular interest in as energy minister,” Minister Wheatley said. “I have asked to be briefed on the matter and trust that ensuing investigations will provide further details on the nature and circumstances surrounding the find.”

The minister moved to reassure the public that his ministry is working with the relevant authorities and stakeholders to ensure that, as far as possible, only fuel that is fit for the intended purpose enters the Jamaican market.