Kanpur Supply Department Exposes Illegal LPG Refilling Racket
In a significant crackdown on black marketing activities, the Supply department in Kanpur has exposed an illegal domestic LPG cylinder refilling operation. The raid, conducted in the Keshav Nagar area, led to the detention of one individual and the seizure of equipment used for unauthorized gas extraction and sale.
Details of the Raid and Seizures
On Monday, a team from the Supply department, led by Amarjeet Singh Vaishya, carried out a targeted raid at a tin-shed room located near the Nakshatra Diagnostic Centre. During the thorough search of the premises, officials uncovered substantial evidence of illicit activities.
- Three domestic LPG cylinders were recovered, with two found fully filled and one half-filled.
- A small cylinder, which was empty, was also seized from the spot.
- Gas refilling equipment, specifically designed for extracting and transferring LPG, was confiscated.
- In total, 76 cylinder caps were discovered, indicating the scale of the operation.
Suspect Identified and Allegations
The individual present at the location during the raid was identified as Suraj Yadav, who is reportedly associated with a gas agency and works as a hawker. According to officials, Yadav was allegedly involved in extracting gas from domestic cylinders and then selling it at inflated prices, exploiting consumers and violating regulations.
Regional Food Officer Amarjeet Singh Vaishya stated that a formal written complaint has been lodged at the local police station. Following this, a First Information Report (FIR) has been registered against Suraj Yadav, charging him with illegal refilling and black marketing of LPG cylinders.
Ongoing Investigation and Legal Actions
Officials have emphasized that further investigation into the matter is currently underway. The raid highlights ongoing efforts by authorities to curb black marketing practices that not only disrupt the supply chain but also pose safety risks due to improper handling of flammable gases.
The bust in Keshav Nagar serves as a reminder of the vigilance required to prevent such illegal operations, ensuring that domestic LPG cylinders reach consumers at regulated prices and through authorized channels.
