1,600 Litres of Illicit Diesel Seized in Moulvibazar

In a decisive move against the black market and resource hoarding, authorities in the Kamalganj Upazila of Moulvibazar have successfully confiscated a substantial cache of illegally stored diesel. The operation, conducted under the cover of night, targeted a local enterprise suspected of bypassing stringent government regulations regarding the storage and sale of combustible fuels.

The Midnight Raid

Following a series of intelligence reports, the Mobile Court, spearheaded by the Kamalganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Mr. Md. Asaduzzaman, executed a strategic raid in the Chitlia area of Alinagar Union. The focus of the investigation was Hiron Enterprise, a local business owned by an individual identified as Hiron Mia.

Upon searching the premises and the merchant’s adjacent residence, law enforcement discovered 1,600 litres of diesel concealed within eight industrial-grade drums. The fuel had been stockpiled without the requisite permits, a direct violation of state protocols designed to maintain price stability and public safety.

Fugitives and Legal Action

While the recovery of the fuel was a success, the primary suspects—Hiron Mia and his son, Jewel Mia—managed to evade capture. Sensing the approaching authorities, the duo fled the scene before a perimeter could be established. A manhunt is currently underway, and local police have been instructed to monitor nearby exit points to bring the offenders to justice.

Protecting the Public Interest

Speaking to the press on Saturday morning, UNO Asaduzzaman reiterated the government’s “zero tolerance” policy regarding the artificial manipulation of the energy market. He emphasised that such hoarding is often a precursor to creating artificial shortages, which drives up prices for the average consumer and harms the local agricultural economy.

“There is no room for unscrupulous traders to profit by hoarding essential fuel and creating panic in the market,” Asaduzzaman stated. “Our administration remains vigilant against any attempt to exploit the public.”

Seizure Summary and Logistics

Future Distribution

The seized diesel will not go to waste. According to official directives, the fuel will be processed through legal channels and subsequently sold to the general public at fair, government-regulated prices. This ensures that the energy reaches the farmers and transporters who need it most, rather than languishing in illegal depots.

The local administration has urged citizens to report any suspicious activity involving the bulk storage of fuel or other essential commodities to ensure the continued stability of the regional economy.