The use of butane gas as fuel for vehicles is strictly illegal and dangerous in Côte d'Ivoire. Faced with the persistence of this practice, the Ivorian authorities have set up a toll-free number for the public to report offenders.

A dangerous and illegal practice

Despite the ban, this practice is still common in some parts of the country, posing significant risks. Transferring and using butane gas in engines frequently causes vehicle fires, both while driving and during cylinder refills.

A recent example illustrates this danger: on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, in Guiglo, a municipal taxi caught fire in the Excellence neighborhood. According to information from the Cavally civil fire department, the fire broke out during the transfer of butane gas intended for use as fuel.

Criminal penalties for offenders

The use of butane gas as a substitute for traditional fuels is formally punishable under Ivorian law.

Law No. 92-470 of July 30, 1992, clearly defines this practice as an offense. Article 3, paragraph 4, stipulates that "any marketing or delivery of petroleum products intended for consumption by the public or private companies outside of petroleum facilities specifically authorized for this purpose" is illegal.

Offenders are subject to severe penalties as set out in Article 4 of the same law:

1. Prison sentence: from 15 days to 1 year.
2. Fine: from 100,000 to 500,000 FCFA.

How to report this practice?

To effectively combat this dangerous practice, authorities urge the public to be vigilant and cooperate by using the dedicated toll-free number . This anonymous service allows for the reporting of cases of illegal use of butane gas as fuel and helps ensure public safety.