Vadodara Police Crack Down on Illegal LPG Refilling Operation
In a significant crackdown on illicit activities, the Special Operations Group (SOG) of the Vadodara city police conducted a targeted raid in the Khodiyarnagar area on Thursday, resulting in the seizure of 42 LPG cylinders. This operation was launched following a credible tip-off regarding the unauthorized refilling of gas cylinders, which poses serious safety and regulatory risks.
Details of the Raid and Seizure
Acting swiftly on the intelligence, SOG officials raided a residential property linked to the illegal operation. During the search, police discovered 30 cylinders at the premises—26 domestic and 4 commercial cylinders—all of which were fully filled with gas. Additionally, 12 empty cylinders were found lying unclaimed in the locality, though authorities have not yet established a direct connection between these and the main racket.
Modus Operandi of the Accused
The mastermind behind this illegal scheme has been identified as Shardul Bharwad, a driver employed by a Harni-based gas agency. Bharwad allegedly used a three-wheeled goods carrier, assigned for delivering domestic cylinders, to transport them to his residence in Bharwadvas. There, he would illegally transfer gas from domestic cylinders into commercial ones, which were then sold on the black market for profit.
Key evidence recovered includes specialized equipment used for gas transfer, along with seals, caps, and other materials essential for the refilling process. Bharwad was apprehended red-handed while in the act of refilling cylinders, having taken 25 domestic cylinders from the agency earlier that Saturday morning with the intent to fill four commercial and one domestic cylinder.
Legal Actions and Implications
An official offence has been registered against Shardul Bharwad at the Harni police station. He faces charges under the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Essential Commodities Act, highlighting the severity of the violation. Such illegal refilling not only undermines government regulations but also poses significant safety hazards, including risks of leaks and explosions.
This bust underscores the ongoing efforts by Vadodara police to combat black market activities and ensure public safety. Authorities are continuing their investigation to determine if the unclaimed cylinders are linked to broader networks or other individuals involved in similar illicit practices.
