In a major crackdown on organised crime affecting the agricultural sector, the Agra police on Tuesday dismantled an interstate racket involved in the illegal diversion and black marketing of subsidised urea meant for farmers. The operation, conducted in Muzaffarnagar, led to the arrest of eight individuals and the seizure of more than 20 tonnes of fertiliser valued at approximately Rs 60 lakh.
Details of the Operation
Senior Superintendent of Police (SSP) Sanjay Kumar Verma stated that the action was part of an ongoing drive against organised crime and black-marketing activities that harm farmers. During the operation, law enforcement officials seized 455 sacks containing 20,430 kg of subsidised urea, two pickup vehicles, a canter truck, a car, and forged bills allegedly used in the illegal trade.
Modus Operandi
Investigators revealed that the accused would purchase urea supplied to farmers at subsidised rates and transport it to Yamunanagar in Haryana. There, the fertiliser was allegedly sold to factories at higher prices for profit. The subsidised urea, available to farmers at around Rs 265 per bag, could fetch Rs 465 or more in the open market, enabling the accused to earn substantial profits.
Scale of the Racket
Police suspect that the racket had been operating for several months and may have illegally diverted nearly 15.12 lakh kg of subsidised urea over the past six months. SSP Verma noted that police had received inputs about the illegal trade in government-supplied urea over the past two weeks. “A special investigation was launched with the help of surveillance teams and agriculture department officials,” he said. “During checking, police intercepted a canter truck, two pickup vehicles, and a car, and arrested the accused.”
Impact on Farmers
Officials emphasised that the fertiliser, intended for agricultural use, was being diverted for industrial purposes. This diversion not only deprives farmers of essential inputs but also forces them to pay higher prices in the black market. The police action is expected to send a strong message to those involved in such illegal activities.
Legal Proceedings
The arrested individuals have been booked under relevant sections of the law, and further investigations are underway to identify other members of the network. The police are also working with agriculture department officials to tighten surveillance and prevent future occurrences.
This operation underscores the commitment of law enforcement agencies to protect the interests of farmers and ensure that government subsidies reach their intended beneficiaries.
