Sirajganj Fuel Crackdown Intensifies

Authorities in Sirajganj have seized a total of 3,829 litres of petrol and diesel during coordinated enforcement drives across Kazipur, Ullapara, and Raiganj upazilas, alongside fines imposed on three traders for illegal fuel storage and distribution. The operations were conducted between Wednesday evening (1 April) and early Thursday morning (2 April) as part of a wider crackdown on unlicensed fuel trading and black-market activity.

According to officials, the drives targeted establishments suspected of storing and selling petroleum products without the necessary authorisation, documentation, or safety compliance. Such activities not only violate regulatory provisions but also pose significant fire and environmental hazards in densely populated market areas.

In Kazipur, a pre-dawn operation was carried out at Sonamukhi Bazar, where law enforcement and administrative officials inspected an unlicensed outlet operating under the name M/s SR Fuel Traders. During the search, 1,729 litres of petrol and diesel were recovered from the premises. The owner, Shah Alam, son of Azahar Ali of Rohabari village, failed to produce any legal documentation justifying the purchase, storage, or sale of fuel. As a result, authorities imposed a fine of BDT 10,000.

In Ullapara, a separate raid was conducted in the Charia area on Wednesday afternoon at M/s Sohag Enterprise. Officials recovered 1,000 litres of illegally stored diesel from the shop. Investigators found that the business had been operating an unauthorised mini fuel pump within the premises, facilitating unregulated sales. The owner, Shahadat Hossain, was fined BDT 10,000 following the discovery.

Meanwhile, in Raiganj upazila’s Chandikona area, enforcement officers uncovered a more concealed storage method. A total of 1,100 litres of diesel was found hidden inside two water tanks, indicating deliberate efforts to evade detection. The proprietor, Prakash Kumar Mahato, was fined BDT 5,000 for illegal possession and storage of petroleum products.

Officials confirmed that all seized fuel has been transferred to authorised distribution points and subsequently sold in accordance with government regulations. The proceeds from these sales have been deposited into the national treasury, ensuring that recovered assets are properly accounted for.

Authorities emphasised that the operations are part of an ongoing effort to stabilise the local fuel market, prevent revenue loss, and reduce safety risks associated with improper fuel handling.

Summary of Enforcement Actions

Officials have further indicated that surveillance and inspection drives will continue across the district. Traders engaged in unlawful fuel handling may face stricter legal consequences, including higher penalties and potential closure of business operations, as the administration seeks to ensure compliance with national fuel regulations and public safety standards.