Bhojpur Police Crack Down on Interstate Diesel Theft Racket
In a significant breakthrough, the Bhojpur police on Wednesday dismantled an interstate gang involved in the illicit siphoning of diesel from an Indian Oil Corporation Limited (IOCL) pipeline. The operation led to the arrest of two accused individuals and the seizure of 2,000 litres of stolen diesel, valued at approximately Rs1.80 lakh.
Arrests and Seizure Details
Acting on a credible tip-off, law enforcement officials apprehended Sunil Kumar, a resident of Chhibramau in Kannauj district, Uttar Pradesh, and Chandrama Ram, from Amehata village under the Agiaon Bazar police station area in Bhojpur district. The arrests occurred at Nawadaben village, located under the Gajrajganj Outpost (OP) jurisdiction in Bhojpur.
Police confiscated the stolen diesel, which was stored in a pickup truck. Chanchal Mahtha, the Station House Officer (SHO) of Gajrajganj OP, confirmed the seizure, stating that the vehicle has been impounded as part of the ongoing investigation.
Modus Operandi of the Gang
Explaining the sophisticated methods employed by the gang, SHO Chanchal Mahtha detailed that the perpetrators would dig tunnels in remote areas where the IOCL pipeline passes. Using specialised plumbing equipment, they would then drill into the pipeline to siphon off diesel. This clandestine operation was designed to evade detection in isolated locations.
The theft was uncovered when IOCL's fuel pressure monitoring system detected an abnormal drop in pressure along the pipeline. Suspecting foul play, IOCL officials promptly alerted the Bhojpur police, which triggered the investigation and subsequent arrests.
Ongoing Investigation and Search for Kingpin
Authorities are now intensifying efforts to locate the kingpin of this interstate racket, who is believed to be operating from the Gajrajganj OP area. According to police sources, the arrested individuals have provided names of other gang members, including the mastermind. Raids are currently underway to apprehend these suspects.
SHO Chanchal Mahtha noted that it remains unclear where the stolen diesel was being sold or distributed. Further investigation is in progress to unravel the full extent of the criminal network and its operations.
This crackdown highlights the vigilance of law enforcement in combating fuel theft, a crime that poses significant economic and safety risks. The Bhojpur police continue to pursue all leads to ensure all involved parties are brought to justice.
