Patna Authorities Seize 138 LPG Cylinders in Major Raid Targeting Black Marketing
In a significant crackdown on illegal hoarding and black marketing, the Patna district administration conducted a late-night raid on Thursday in the Shahpur area of Danapur subdivision. The operation resulted in the seizure of a total of 138 domestic and commercial LPG cylinders, which included 25 filled cylinders that were being stored unlawfully.
Swift Action by District Officials
The raid was executed by a dedicated team led by Danapur Sub-Divisional Magistrate Anirudh Pandey and Assistant District Supply Officer Tej Pratap, who were supported by local police personnel. Upon receiving intelligence about the raid, the individuals involved in the black marketing activities fled the scene, leaving behind the illicit stockpile of cylinders.
During a thorough inspection, officials discovered that there were no valid documents associated with the seized cylinders, confirming their illegal status. Consequently, the team confiscated all 138 cylinders to prevent their further misuse in the black market.
Investigation and Legal Proceedings Initiated
An investigation has been launched to trace the origin of the cylinders and determine which gas agency they belonged to. The supply inspector has already started the process of filing a formal report under the Essential Commodities Act, which governs the distribution and sale of critical goods like LPG.
Assistant District Supply Officer Tej Pratap emphasized the ongoing efforts to combat black marketing, stating, "Continuous action is being taken against black marketing of domestic LPG gas cylinders on the directions of the Patna District Magistrate, Thiyagarajan S M." He highlighted that several complaints had been received from consumers facing difficulties in obtaining LPG cylinders, prompting these investigations.
Background and Future Actions
According to the ASDO, specific information was received regarding the illegal storage of domestic LPG gas cylinders for black marketing purposes within the Shahpur police station area. This intelligence directly led to the planning and execution of the successful raid.
Tej Pratap further affirmed, "Action against hoarding and black marketing will continue in the future as well," underscoring the administration's commitment to ensuring fair access to essential commodities for all residents. This raid is part of a broader initiative to address supply chain issues and protect consumers from exploitation in the LPG market.
