Nagpur Police Crack Down on Illegal Diesel Hoarding Amid Widespread Fuel Shortage
In a significant operation on Tuesday, the Butibori police in Nagpur seized a substantial cache of illegally hoarded diesel, totaling 1,900 litres with an estimated value of nearly Rs1.9 lakh. This raid, which also recovered other materials worth around Rs2 lakh, brings the total recovery to approximately Rs4 lakh. The action comes at a critical time when both city and rural areas in the region are grappling with an acute fuel shortage, leading to long queues and disruptions at petrol pumps.
Police Raid Unearths Illegal Storage Operation
Acting on a specific tip-off received earlier in the day, a dedicated police team, under the close monitoring of Rural Superintendent of Police Harssh A Poddar, conducted a targeted raid in Ruikheri. The operation resulted in the arrest of two individuals: Ranjit Singh Thakur, aged 49, and Roshan Yadav, aged 40, both residents of Wardha. Authorities are currently searching for a third suspect, Mohd Aklim Mohd Aslam Sheikh of Ruikhairi, who is reported to be absconding.
Police investigations revealed that the trio had been operating without any valid licence to store diesel, engaging in hoarding activities with the intent of profiteering from the ongoing fuel crisis. During the raid, officers recovered 95 plastic cans, each with a capacity of 20 litres, all filled with diesel from the premises.
Supervision and Legal Action
The operation was meticulously supervised by Additional Superintendent of Police Anil Mhaske and Sub-Divisional Police Officer Bhagyashree Dhirbassi, ensuring a thorough and lawful execution. Following the seizure, a formal case has been registered under Sections 3 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955, and Section 8(1) of the Petroleum Act. These charges highlight the serious nature of the offence, given the essential status of diesel as a commodity during shortages.
Probing a Larger Syndicate
Police officials have expressed suspicions that this illegal hoarding operation may be part of a larger syndicate. As part of their ongoing investigation, authorities are actively probing backward linkages to uncover any networks or accomplices involved in the illicit trade. This move aims to dismantle any organized efforts to exploit the fuel shortage for unlawful gains.
The seizure not only disrupts immediate illegal activities but also sends a strong message against hoarding during times of public need. With fuel shortages causing widespread inconvenience, such police actions are crucial in maintaining supply integrity and preventing market manipulation.
