Illegal Fuel Sales in Pabna Lead to Heavy Fine

Authorities in Pabna have taken strict action against an unauthorised fuel operation, imposing a fine of 90,000 Taka on the operator. The incident occurred in Hemayetpur Union under Pabna Sadar Upazila, where a temporary petrol pump was found selling fuel illegally.

On Saturday, 7 March, based on confidential intelligence provided by the National Security Intelligence (NSI), a mobile court conducted a raid on the site. The operation revealed that the temporary petrol station was owned by Jahangir Alam, also known as Alam Hazi, the Union Parishad chairman affiliated with Jamaat. The fine was imposed on Alam Hazi’s brother, who was directly managing the illicit storage and sale of fuel.

According to district administration sources, the makeshift petrol pump was situated beside the Jame Masjid in the village of Islampur. Under the supervision of Executive Magistrate Abdul Alim, the mobile court carried out a thorough inspection of the site.

During the raid, authorities discovered significant irregularities, including the storage of large quantities of fuel in plastic containers—an extremely hazardous practice that posed a risk to public safety. The pump management failed to present the necessary legal permits or documentation to justify the storage and sale of petrol. The administration noted that the operation violated multiple safety regulations and environmental standards.

Details of the Operation:

The district administration emphasised that such unauthorised operations not only breach legal protocols but also endanger the lives of nearby residents due to the risk of fire or explosion. Officials have warned other local operators that similar violations will not be tolerated and that strict legal measures will be enforced to ensure compliance with safety regulations.

This incident highlights the ongoing challenges of monitoring temporary fuel operations in rural areas, particularly those run without the required safety measures and documentation. Authorities have indicated that follow-up inspections will continue across the district to prevent further illegal fuel trade.