Ropar Police Cracks Down on Inter-State Oil Theft Ring
The Ropar police have made a significant breakthrough. They have busted an inter-state gang involved in sophisticated oil theft operations. The gang specialized in tampering with digital locks on oil tankers. They also manufactured fake electronic keys to bypass security systems.
Two Accused Arrested in Coordinated Operation
Police arrested two key members of this network. The operation was conducted under the direct supervision of SSP Ropar Maninder Singh. Detective Jatinder Chauhan led the investigative efforts.
The arrested individuals are Vikram Singh, also known as Vicky. He is a tanker driver from Kalwan village in Rupnagar district. The second accused is Muhammad Danish, a resident of Meerut in Uttar Pradesh.
Charges Filed Under Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and IPC
Authorities have registered a formal case. The FIR number is 08 of 2026. It includes multiple sections from the new Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita. Charges under the Indian Penal Code are also applied.
These charges cover theft, cheating, and various forgery-related offences. They specifically address dishonest possession of stolen property and criminal conspiracy.
Modus Operandi of the Gang Revealed
DSP Jatinder Chauhan explained the gang's methods. The accused created specialized electronic devices. These devices could unlock digital oil tanker locks without triggering any alarms.
Muhammad Danish handled the technical side. He assembled electronic components and programmed microprocessor chips. He developed functional devices that could bypass the tanker security locks.
Danish frequently traveled to Punjab and Himachal Pradesh for operations. His main areas of activity included Ropar, Sangrur, and Nalagarh. This travel pattern suggests a wider inter-state network.
Vikram Singh purchased these electronic keys from Danish. He then used them during tanker transit. He would unlock the tanker locks, siphon off fuel, and sell it illegally.
The stolen petrol and diesel were sold at roadside eateries and other informal outlets. Payments for the devices were conducted through online transactions for convenience.
Substantial Evidence Recovered During Raids
Police conducted thorough search and seizure operations. They recovered a large cache of incriminating materials.
- 40 to 50 base keys
- A soldering machine
- A 12-volt battery with wires and clippers
- 12 IRF unlock keys
- 12 microprocessor chips
- A BPCL oil tanker lock with its microprocessor chip and RF key
- Various other manufacturing materials
- A mobile phone
- A car
- A BPCL oil tanker found with its lock open
Investigation Continues to Uncover Full Network
DSP Chauhan confirmed that the investigation is ongoing. Police are working to identify all members of this inter-state network. They aim to dismantle the entire operation and prevent further fuel thefts.
This case highlights the evolving methods used in organized fuel theft. It underscores the importance of robust security measures for petroleum transportation.
