Udupi: Malpe police have taken a 43-year-old man into custody for allegedly storing and selling commercial LPG cylinders without the required licence and authorisation. The action followed a joint raid conducted by officials of the Food Department and the police at a residence near Malpe Junction in Kodavoor village.
Authorities carried out the operation at around 10.45 am on June 3 after receiving credible information about the alleged illegal storage and sale of commercial LPG cylinders.
Joint raid uncovers LPG stock
The raid was conducted by Food Administrative Officer Asha K. from the Udupi taluk office, Food Inspector Hitesh U. B., and a team led by Malpe Police Sub-Inspector Anil Kumar.
During the inspection of the premises, officials discovered a total of 21 commercial LPG cylinders stored at the location.
The seized stock included 12 commercial cylinders with a capacity of 19 kg, one of which was filled with LPG, along with nine commercial cylinders of 5 kg capacity.
Officials said the cylinders were being stored without the necessary licence or supporting documentation required under applicable regulations.
Accused unable to produce licence
According to investigators, the accused identified as Sanath R. Kamath (43), a resident of Malpe in Kodavoor village of Udupi taluk, was questioned during the inspection.
Police said he reportedly admitted that the cylinders had been stored for sale to individuals involved in fishing-related activities in the area.
However, when officials sought documentation authorising the storage and sale of commercial LPG cylinders, he was allegedly unable to produce any valid licence or permits.
Following the inspection, Food Department officials seized all the cylinders under a mahazar and lodged a formal complaint with Malpe police.
Police register case and make arrest
Based on the complaint filed by the Food Department, Malpe police registered a case and initiated further investigation.
Later in the evening on June 3, police took Sanath Kamath into custody near Malpe Junction.
During interrogation, he allegedly confessed to storing and selling commercial LPG cylinders without obtaining the required licence from the competent authorities.
Police subsequently arrested him and produced him before a court for further legal proceedings.
Investigation continues
Officials are continuing their investigation to determine the extent of the alleged illegal LPG distribution activity and whether any additional individuals were involved.
Authorities are also examining the source of the cylinders and the manner in which they were supplied and sold.
Police said further action will be taken based on the findings of the investigation and applicable legal provisions.
The case highlights ongoing efforts by enforcement agencies to curb unauthorised storage and sale of LPG cylinders, which can pose both regulatory and public safety concerns.