Delhi Police Crack Down on Illegal LPG Racket, Arrest Three in Mahipalpur
In a significant operation targeting unauthorized gas supply networks, the Delhi Police have apprehended three individuals involved in the illegal hoarding and distribution of LPG cylinders in the southwest district of the national capital. The arrests followed a coordinated raid that led to the recovery of a total of 74 cylinders from their possession, along with equipment used for illicit gas transfer activities.
Details of the Arrests and Seizure
The accused have been identified as Krishna (33), Mithilesh (39), and Dinesh Sahu (46). According to Deputy Commissioner of Police (Southwest) Amit Goel, the police received specific intelligence on Saturday regarding the unlawful storage of LPG cylinders at a premises located in Mahipalpur. Acting promptly on this tip-off, a raid was conducted, resulting in the immediate arrest of the trio.
During the search operation, authorities not only confiscated the LPG cylinders but also seized weighing machines and other apparatus allegedly employed in the illegal trade. When interrogated, the accused failed to produce any valid license or authorization for storing the cylinders, confirming the illicit nature of their operations.
Modus Operandi and Investigation Findings
Upon further interrogation, the accused disclosed that they had been engaged in the unauthorized sale of LPG cylinders to local residents without issuing bills, a tactic aimed at maximizing profits. They utilized a vehicle for transporting the cylinders and had specifically rented the premises for the purpose of illegal storage.
Investigators uncovered that the accused were involved in transferring gas from multiple filled cylinders into empty ones using metal pipes. This dangerous practice was reportedly carried out to enhance profit margins and manipulate the supply chain, posing significant safety risks to the community.
"All the accused have been residing in Delhi for the past two decades and have been involved in illegal LPG supply activities in the Mahipalpur area for the last three years," stated DCP Amit Goel, highlighting the prolonged nature of their unlawful enterprise.
Comprehensive List of Recovered Items
The seizure from the raid included:
- 70 domestic LPG cylinders, comprising 54 filled and 16 partially used units.
- Four commercial cylinders, with three filled and one used.
- One electronic weighing scale and two hanging weighing machines.
- A metal pipe specifically used for gas transfer and refilling operations.
This crackdown underscores the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to curb illegal activities that compromise public safety and disrupt regulated supply chains. The Delhi Police continue to investigate the matter to identify any further connections or accomplices involved in the racket.
