Crime – Illegal LPG Cylinder Hoarding Racket Busted in Delhi
Crime – Three men accused of illegally storing and distributing LPG cylinders in southwest Delhi have been taken into custody following a police operation in Mahipalpur.
Police in southwest Delhi have arrested three individuals for allegedly running an unauthorized LPG cylinder storage and distribution network in the Mahipalpur locality. According to officials, the accused were involved in hoarding domestic and commercial gas cylinders and selling them at inflated rates without proper documentation or legal approval.
Arrests Made After Targeted Raid
The accused have been identified as Krishna (33), Dinesh Sahu (46), and Mithilesh (39). Though originally from Bihar, all three had been residing in Delhi for several years. Their activities came under police scrutiny following specific inputs about illegal gas trading in the area.
Acting on this information, a police team conducted a raid on Saturday, leading to their arrest. Authorities stated that the operation was carefully planned to ensure the safe handling of the cylinders, considering the potential risk involved in such illegal storage.
Large Cache of Cylinders Seized
During the raid, police recovered a total of 74 LPG cylinders, which included 70 domestic units and four commercial ones. In addition to the cylinders, officers seized a vehicle believed to be used for transporting the gas and equipment used for refilling purposes.
Officials revealed that the accused had set up a system to transfer gas from filled cylinders into empty ones using metal pipes. This method allowed them to manipulate supply levels and generate higher profits by reselling the gas without any regulatory oversight.
Illegal Distribution Without Licences
Investigators found that the trio had been supplying LPG cylinders directly to customers in the area without issuing bills or maintaining records. They were unable to present any valid licences or permits required for the storage, transportation, or sale of LPG cylinders.
Police also recovered weighing machines and other tools used in the process, indicating a well-established setup rather than a small-scale operation. Authorities believe that such activities not only violate regulations but also pose serious safety risks to nearby residents.
Case Registered Under Relevant Laws
A formal case has been registered against the accused under provisions of the Essential Commodities Act as well as the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita at the Vasant Kunj North police station. Officials stated that further investigation is underway to determine the full extent of the operation and identify any additional individuals who may have been involved.
Operation Believed to Be Running for Years
Senior police officers indicated that the accused had allegedly been engaged in this illegal trade for nearly three years. During this period, they are believed to have built a steady customer base by offering quick and unregulated supply of LPG cylinders, often at higher prices.
Authorities are now examining whether similar networks are operating in nearby areas and have stressed the importance of strict enforcement to prevent such practices.
Safety Concerns and Public Risk
Officials highlighted that unauthorized handling and storage of LPG cylinders can be extremely dangerous. Improper refilling methods and lack of safety measures significantly increase the risk of leaks, fires, or explosions, putting both customers and surrounding communities at risk.
Police have urged residents to report any suspicious activity related to LPG distribution and to purchase cylinders only from authorized dealers to ensure safety and compliance with regulations.