Jetpur Police Book Warehouse Manager for Rs 18 Lakh Fraud in Gujarat Gas Pipeline Project
The Jetpur Industrial Nagar police have taken decisive action by registering a formal case against a local resident for alleged fraud and criminal breach of trust. This serious incident involves materials valued at over Rs 18 lakh that mysteriously disappeared from a warehouse connected to a crucial Gujarat Gas pipeline project. The complaint, which has sparked an investigation, highlights potential vulnerabilities in project management and local contracting.
Details of the Complaint and Accused
The complaint was officially lodged by Dalesh Patel (47), who serves as a project manager with Control Plus Oil and Gas Solutions Pvt Ltd. This company was responsible for executing a CNG pipeline project on behalf of Gujarat Gas Ltd. The case targets Vijay Shingala, who was engaged as a local guide and warehouse manager for this significant infrastructure initiative. His role was pivotal in overseeing the storage and security of essential materials.
Background of the Warehouse and Employment
According to the First Information Report (FIR), the company secured the contract in 2024 and urgently needed a warehouse to store materials and equipment. Shingala was appointed to this position with a monthly salary of Rs 25,000. He initially claimed ownership of a property known as Giriraj Farm, which was used for storage purposes. However, five to six months later, a startling revelation emerged: the property actually belonged to Girish Usadadiya. Following this discovery, a formal rental agreement was executed with the legitimate owner, but Shingala continued his employment with the company without interruption.
Discovery of Missing Materials and Allegations
After the project concluded in July 2025, the company attempted to retrieve surplus materials from the warehouse. Shingala allegedly refused to cooperate, citing various expenses as justification. A subsequent inspection conducted in August 2025 uncovered a troubling situation: critical items such as pipes, valves, flanges, and other fittings stored at the warehouse were missing. The total value of these missing materials was meticulously estimated at Rs 18.2 lakh, underscoring the financial impact of the alleged misconduct.
Legal Action and Charges Filed
Based on the detailed complaint provided by Dalesh Patel, the police have officially booked Vijay Shingala under Section 316 (4) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). This section pertains to criminal breach of trust, reflecting the serious nature of the accusations. The case is now under active investigation, with authorities examining all aspects of the warehouse management and the circumstances surrounding the disappearance of the valuable materials.
This incident serves as a stark reminder of the importance of stringent oversight and verification processes in industrial projects, especially those involving high-value assets and local contractors. The outcome of this case could have broader implications for how companies manage their supply chains and partnerships in similar infrastructure developments across Gujarat and beyond.