Delhi Police Disrupt Major LPG Black Market Operation in Dwarka, 65 Cylinders Seized
Synopsis
In a decisive action against illegal cooking gas trade, the Dwarka police have dismantled a black marketing network in Chhawla, seizing 65 LPG cylinders and arresting one suspect. This operation highlights the ongoing vigilance amidst supply threats.
Key Takeaways
65 LPG cylinders seized during the operation.
Accused involved in illegal procurement and sales .
Joint operation by AATS and Chhawla Police Station.
Ongoing investigations aim to uncover further connections.
Heightened surveillance due to potential supply disruptions .
New Delhi, March 25 (NationPress) In a significant operation against the illicit trade of cooking gas, the Dwarka police in Delhi have uncovered an unlawful LPG cylinder hoarding and distribution network based in the Chhawla locality, as reported by officials on Wednesday.
The raid took place on Tuesday, initiated by a coordinated effort involving Dwarka's Anti-Auto Theft Squad (AATS) and the Chhawla Police Station, following actionable intelligence regarding unauthorized storage and sale of LPG cylinders from a residential property.
The police maintained increased surveillance in the area due to the ongoing geopolitical climate and the potential for disruption in LPG supplies.
During the operation, the AATS received reliable information that a residence in Kashmiri Colony in Chhawla was being utilized for illegal hoarding and black marketing of LPG cylinders.
Swift action was taken, and a raid was executed at the identified location.
Upon investigation, the house was discovered to be filled with a substantial number of LPG cylinders, confirming the illegal activities.
The accused, named Ashok Kumar (52), hailing from Etawah in Uttar Pradesh, was apprehended at the scene.
Initial inquiries indicated that Kumar was involved in illegally procuring LPG cylinders, hoarding them unlawfully, and selling them to local residents and small businesses at inflated prices, capitalizing on anticipated supply shortages.
A total of 65 LPG cylinders were confiscated during the raid, which included 57 commercial cylinders—38 from Indane and 19 from Bharat—along with eight domestic cylinders, consisting of six from Bharat and two from Indane.
In addition to the LPG cylinders, police recovered equipment utilized in the illegal operation, like a gas transfer machine, which was used for refilling cylinders, and a weighing machine for accurate measurement during sales.
A case has been filed against the accused under relevant provisions of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS), including Sections 287 and 288, as well as Section 7 of the Essential Commodities Act, at the Chhawla Police Station.
Authorities stated that further investigations are ongoing to trace the source of procurement and to identify any other individuals involved in the scheme.
Point of View
The recent bust of a black marketing operation in Delhi underscores the ongoing challenges posed by illegal activities surrounding essential commodities like LPG. The police's proactive measures are crucial in ensuring public safety and maintaining supply integrity, especially in uncertain geopolitical times.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the police raid in Dwarka?
The raid was initiated based on actionable intelligence regarding unauthorized storage and sale of LPG cylinders from a residential area.
How many LPG cylinders were seized?
A total of 65 LPG cylinders were confiscated during the police operation.
What charges were filed against the accused?
The accused faces charges under various sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and the Essential Commodities Act.
Who was arrested in the operation?
The suspect arrested is identified as Ashok Kumar, a 52-year-old resident from Etawah, Uttar Pradesh.
What is being done to investigate further?
Authorities are continuing their investigations to trace the source of the illegal cylinders and identify any additional individuals involved.
