The government has seized a total of 448,456 litres of illegally hoarded fuel oil during a series of 6,242 operations and mobile courts conducted across the country between March and April 5.
According to a press release issued by the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources on Monday, the crackdown was initiated to ensure the proper management of fuel supplies. During these operations, 2,456 cases were filed, resulting in total fines of Tk1,25,39,500 and the imprisonment of 31 individuals.
The seized inventory includes 333,157 litres of diesel, 36,405 litres of octane, and 78,894 litres of petrol.
The drive was conducted by the District Administration, the Directorate of National Consumers’ Right Protection (DNCRP), and various law enforcement agencies to prevent irregularities in supply and illegal hoarding. These actions come at a time when international crude oil prices have surged due to military tensions surrounding Iran in the Middle East, impacting Bangladesh’s import costs and supply chain.
Officials stated that such operations will continue to maintain a normal supply in the market and prevent the creation of artificial crises. Recently, reports surfaced regarding supply disruptions and artificial shortages at the retail level for diesel, petrol, and octane.
This coincided with a rise in demand across the agriculture, transport, and power sectors since March, leading to allegations of hoarding and overpricing against several dealers and traders.
To address the situation, the government has moved to import additional fuel. The Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) has begun the process of importing extra diesel and refined fuel oil to meet the projected demand for April and May.
Additionally, state-owned depots and marketing companies have been directed to maintain adequate stocks.
Authorities expressed concern that if the conflict involving Iran escalates, global fuel supplies could be further disrupted, potentially creating fresh pressure on the domestic market.
