Delhi Police Busts LPG Black-Market Racket, Three Arrested with 74 Cylinders
Synopsis
In a significant operation, Delhi Police has dismantled an illegal LPG hoarding and black-marketing scheme in Mahipalpur, arresting three individuals and recovering 74 cylinders. This crackdown aims to combat ongoing gas shortages and illegal sales in the region.
Key Takeaways
Delhi Police has arrested three individuals for illegal LPG black-marketing.
Seized 74 LPG cylinders , including domestic and commercial types.
The operation aims to tackle the ongoing gas shortages in the region.
The accused had been involved in illegal activities for nearly three years.
Police are conducting a broader crackdown on LPG hoarding and illegal sales.
New Delhi, March 22 (NationPress) – The Delhi Police announced on Sunday that they have dismantled an unlawful LPG hoarding and black-marketing scheme in the Mahipalpur locality, leading to the arrest of three suspects.
During the operation, a total of 74 LPG cylinders were seized, consisting of 70 domestic and four commercial units, along with a Tata Ace Gold vehicle, weighing scales, and other gas transfer apparatus utilized in the illegal operation.
The raid was executed on Saturday by the Anti-Auto Theft Squad (AATS), which apprehended three individuals named Krishna (33), Dinesh Sahu (46), and Mithilesh (39). Officials revealed that the trio, hailing from Bihar, had resided in Delhi for the last 20 to 25 years and had been engaged in illegal LPG distribution in the Mahipalpur region for approximately three years.
A dedicated team, including SI Ram Pratap, ASI Vinod Kumar, and several constables, operated under Inspector Ram Kumar's leadership and under the supervision of ACP (Operations) Sanghamitra, acting on precise intelligence regarding illegal LPG activities in the area.
According to officials, on March 21, 2026, secret information was received concerning the unlawful hoarding of LPG cylinders at K-845, Mahipalpur, Delhi. Promptly acting on this tip-off, the team conducted a raid at the specified location and arrested the three suspects.
Upon inspection, a significant quantity of LPG cylinders, along with weighing machines and other related gear, was discovered. The accused were unable to present any valid licenses or authorization for storage or trade in LPG cylinders.
During their interrogation, the suspects admitted to illegally selling LPG cylinders to local inhabitants without invoices or proper authorization to maximize their profits. They utilized a Tata Ace Gold vehicle for transport and had rented the location for unlawful storage. Additionally, they were transferring gas from multiple filled cylinders into empty ones using metal pipes, thereby boosting their profit margins and manipulating supply.
The police stated that this action is part of a larger crackdown on LPG hoarding in the national capital amid ongoing reports of gas shortages.
In recent operations, thousands of cylinders have been confiscated from various locations, including 610 cylinders from Mundka and several others from Shakarpur.
Officials indicated that this crackdown was initiated following complaints alleging that certain distributors were misappropriating LPG cylinders for illegal sales in the black market.
Point of View
The recent operation by the Delhi Police reveals a concerning trend of illegal LPG sales amid rising gas shortages. This crackdown is critical for ensuring public safety and maintaining the integrity of essential services. The arrests highlight the need for stricter enforcement against such illicit activities.
NationPress
10 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What prompted the police raid in Mahipalpur?
The police acted on specific intelligence regarding illegal LPG hoarding in the Mahipalpur area, leading to the operation.
How many LPG cylinders were seized in the operation?
A total of 74 LPG cylinders were recovered during the raid.
What charges are the arrested individuals facing?
The arrested individuals are facing charges related to illegal hoarding and selling of LPG cylinders without authorization.
What measures are being taken against LPG black-marketing?
The police have initiated a broader crackdown on LPG hoarding and black-marketing in response to complaints and gas shortages.
Are there ongoing investigations into similar activities?
Yes, the police are continuing to investigate and monitor for illegal LPG operations across the national capital.
