Crackdown on Fuel Price Violations

Authorities in Cumilla have imposed fines on two business operators for selling fuel at inflated prices and conducting petroleum-related activities without proper licensing, in a drive aimed at curbing malpractice in the local energy market.

On Sunday afternoon (19 April), the operation was carried out in the Sadar South area of Cumilla city under the supervision of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Sujon Chandra Roy. The mobile court was led by Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Sajib Talukdar. Senior officials from the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB-11 CPC-2, Cumilla), including Senior Assistant Superintendent of Police and Squadron Commander Mithun Kumar Kundu, were also present during the enforcement action.

During the inspection, a business named Hossain Enterprise, located in Rajapara North Choumuhani, was found to be selling fuel above government-fixed prices and operating without the required licence. The court found clear violations under the Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009. As a result, the establishment was fined BDT 50,000. Authorities also recovered 48 litres of octane from the premises, which was subsequently ordered to be sold to customers at government-approved rates, with a restriction of a maximum of two litres per individual.

In a separate incident during the same operation, another business entity was penalised for obstructing the investigation team. The firm was accused of providing misleading information and failing to cooperate during an inspection related to alleged fuel stockpiling at a residential location. This conduct was deemed a violation under the Petroleum Act, 2016, resulting in a further fine of BDT 10,000.

Officials stated that the accused individuals had been engaged in the illegal storage and sale of flammable petroleum products, including petrol, diesel, and octane, without authorisation. They were also reportedly using unsafe and unapproved containers for fuel distribution, posing significant risks to public safety and fire hazards.

Summary of Penalties

Authorities reiterated that the administration remains committed to preventing fuel market irregularities, curbing black market activities, and ensuring consumer protection. They further emphasised that strict monitoring of petroleum storage and distribution will continue in the region to safeguard public safety and uphold regulatory compliance.