A significant illegal operation involved in the production and distribution of counterfeit engine oil has been dismantled in Zirakpur. The crackdown was the result of a coordinated effort between the local police and the legal metrology department.
Joint Raid Uncovers Illegal Manufacturing Unit
The action took place late on Saturday night at a godown located in the Bhabaat area. The raid was executed based on specific intelligence and under the direct orders of the SDM of Derabassi. A joint team, spearheaded by Assistant Controller Pritpal Singh and ASI Balraj Singh, discovered that the premises were being used as an unlicensed manufacturing facility for lubricants.
The operator of the unit, identified as Sandeep Kaushik from Peer Muchalla, was immediately taken into custody. During the inspection, Kaushik could not provide any valid documents, including a manufacturing licence, pollution clearance, or other mandatory approvals required for such an operation.
How the Fake Engine Oil Was Made
Investigations revealed a shocking process. The unit sourced discarded and burnt engine oil from scrap dealers and automobile service centers. This waste oil was then subjected to chemical treatment and mixed with coloring agents to appear fresh. The processed oil was subsequently filled into plastic containers that bore counterfeit labels of well-known brands.
Officials seized a massive quantity of fake packaging materials during the raid. The counterfeit labels and containers imitated popular brands like Star Bajaj, Special Hero, 4T Plus, and Consol. The imitation was so precise that the fake packaging was nearly impossible to distinguish from genuine products at first glance. A forensic team was summoned to collect samples for detailed scientific analysis.
Investigation Expands to Trace Supply Network
Following the raid, the police have formally registered a case and initiated a comprehensive investigation. The primary focus is to trace the entire supply chain of the spurious engine oil. Authorities are working to identify the retailers and distributors who were allegedly selling this counterfeit lubricant in the Tricity region (Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula) as well as in rural areas of Punjab and Haryana.
Confirming the successful operation, ASP Gazalpreet Kaur stated, "The unit was operating without any licence. Old engine oil was being recoloured and sold as branded lubricant. The premises have been sealed, and further investigation is under way." The illegal unit has been sealed by the authorities.
This bust highlights a serious threat to vehicle owners who may unknowingly purchase this substandard oil, which can cause severe engine damage. The ongoing probe aims to completely dismantle the network behind this hazardous fraud.
