Mangaluru: Two persons, including a tanker driver, have been arrested for allegedly siphoning diesel illegally from a tanker near Meenakaliya Kodikal Gate in Mangaluru. The operation was carried out following a tip-off received by the authorities regarding unlawful extraction of fuel in the area.
According to officials, the complaint was filed by Food Inspector Harris V M, who acted promptly on credible information about diesel being siphoned from a tanker. Based on this input, a joint team comprising the Food Inspector and personnel from the Panambur police station conducted a raid at the identified location.
Accused caught in the act
During the raid, the suspects were reportedly found in the act of extracting diesel from the tanker using a plastic pipe. The fuel was being collected in cans at the spot, indicating a planned effort to siphon and store the diesel for illegal purposes.
The individuals have been identified as Dhananjaya (51), the tanker driver, and Kushadhara (42). Both were taken into custody immediately following the raid. Authorities believe that the involvement of the tanker driver facilitated access to the fuel, making the operation easier to execute.
Seizure of diesel and equipment
Officials confirmed that approximately 157 litres of diesel, valued at around Rs 14,000, was seized from the site. The fuel had been stored in eight cans after being siphoned from the tanker. In addition to the diesel, the plastic pipe used for extraction and the tanker itself were also seized as part of the evidence.
The seizure highlights the scale of the illegal activity, which, though relatively small in quantity, reflects a broader issue of fuel pilferage that can lead to financial losses and supply irregularities.
Legal action under Essential Commodities Act
Preliminary investigations suggest that the accused were engaged in the illegal siphoning of diesel with the intention of unlawful gain. This act constitutes a violation of provisions under the Essential Commodities Act, which regulates the production, supply, and distribution of essential goods, including fuel.
Authorities have also alleged that the tanker driver, Dhananjaya, siphoned the diesel without the knowledge of the tanker owner or the company. The fuel had reportedly been loaded from MRPL prior to the incident. This has led to additional charges related to breach of trust, as the driver was entrusted with the safe transport of the fuel.
Investigation under way
A case has been registered at the Panambur police station, and further investigation is currently under way to determine whether more individuals were involved in the operation or if similar activities have occurred previously.
Officials are also expected to examine the supply chain and movement of the tanker to identify any lapses in monitoring and security that may have enabled the incident.
Rising concern over fuel pilferage
Incidents of fuel siphoning, though not uncommon, pose a serious concern for authorities due to their economic implications and potential safety risks. Illegal handling and storage of fuel can lead to hazardous situations, including fire accidents and environmental damage.
Authorities have reiterated the importance of vigilance and strict enforcement to curb such activities. They have also encouraged the public to report any suspicious behaviour related to fuel transportation and storage.
Conclusion
The swift action by the Food Inspector and police personnel led to the arrest of the accused and seizure of the illegally siphoned diesel, preventing further misuse. As the investigation progresses, authorities are expected to take stringent action to ensure accountability and deter similar offences in the future.