Swift Police Action Thwarts Interstate Diesel Theft Racket
In a remarkable display of efficiency, the Kelwad police department successfully dismantled an interstate diesel theft operation, arresting four suspects and recovering stolen property valued at approximately ₹3.5 lakh mere hours after the crime was reported. The prompt response prevented the gang from fleeing to neighboring Madhya Pradesh with their illicit gains.
The Midnight Heist on Saoner-Pandhurna Road
The criminal activity unfolded during the late hours of November 21 and early morning of November 22 on the Saoner-Pandhurna Road in Bhagemahri village. Baburam Chaudhary, a 33-year-old truck driver from Barmer, Rajasthan, had parked his trailer containing 292 litres of diesel at a roadside eatery while he took a dinner break between 10:30 PM and 5:30 AM. During this period, thieves targeted his vehicle, breaking open the fuel tank lid and siphoning off nearly 300 litres of diesel. A second truck parked nearby also fell victim to the same criminal group.
Technology-Aided Investigation and Rapid Pursuit
Upon receiving the complaint early on November 22, Kelwad police officers immediately sprang into action. The investigation team examined CCTV footage from the area and employed technical analysis to identify a white car used by the perpetrators. Intelligence sources indicated the gang was attempting to escape toward Madhya Pradesh, prompting police teams to launch an immediate pursuit.
The coordinated effort paid off when police intercepted the suspect vehicle at a dhaba near Khursapar. A thorough search revealed multiple diesel-filled containers, siphoning pipes, and other equipment directly linking the occupants to the theft. The evidence confirmed police had captured the right individuals.
The Arrested Accused and Legal Proceedings
Police identified the four arrested individuals as Rajaram Phuleriya (41), Bhagwansingh Phuleriya (26), Rohit Phuleriya (25) - all residents of Dupada - and Arvind Parmar (20) from Kalwa in Mohan Badodiya taluka, Shajapur district, Madhya Pradesh. The accused now face charges under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
Authorities have seized the criminal's vehicle, all stolen diesel, numerous cans, siphoning pipes, and related equipment with a total estimated value of ₹3.45 lakh. Senior police officials have commended the Kelwad police team for their swift, technology-assisted operation that successfully dismantled the theft racket overnight. The investigation continues as police work to determine if the same gang was responsible for similar fuel thefts across the region.
