Authorities have seized a large quantity of illegally stored diesel and related equipment in Patenga near Chattogram, arresting two people in the operation.
The joint drive took place on Friday from 10:30am to 1:30pm in Hasna area, near Madrasa Gate area adjacent to Shah Amanat International Airport.
Officials recovered nearly 30 drums, equivalent to about six tonnes of diesel. Three pumps used for loading and unloading the fuel were also confiscated. The total estimated value of the seized diesel and equipment is around Tk8 lakh.
Subrata Haldar, Assistant Commissioner (Tourism Cell) and Executive Magistrate of Chattogram, told TIMES of Bangladesh that the operation was carried out under the district commissioner’s instructions.
“Approximately 6,000 litres of diesel were found at an illegal depot in Hasna area,” he said, adding that all recovered items have been brought under legal custody and a case has been filed through police.
No one was present at the depot during the raid, and the ownership of the seized fuel remains unknown.
Patenga police station’s Officer-in-Charge, Mostafa Ahmed, said the operation was conducted jointly by the district administration, Patenga police, and DGFI.
Two people involved in the illegal sale and storage of diesel were arrested on the spot. Their identities are yet to be confirmed, and they have been taken to the station for questioning.
More details will be revealed in a press briefing later in the day.
The seized diesel remains in police custody, and legal proceedings have been initiated under the Special Powers Act, 1974.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the fuel was siphoned off from sea-going ships and authorised depots by a dishonest syndicate and supplied to local sellers.
The district administration stressed that strict measures are being taken to maintain order in the fuel sector, ensure normal supply, and prevent illegal stockpiling.
All fuel depots, petrol pumps, and traders are under close supervision, and regular operations will continue against illicit activities.
