Sitakunda: District authorities in Sitakunda conducted separate drives on Monday against illegal fuel hoarding, seizing 25,000 litres of diesel from a depot and imposing a Tk 50,000 fine on a local filling station.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the Bhatyari Filling Station was fined Tk 50,000 for concealing information about its fuel stock. Officials reported that about 1,700 litres of octane were found stored at the station during a mobile court operation led by Executive Magistrate Fakhrul Islam.
In a separate drive based on intelligence reports, authorities recovered approximately 25,000 litres of diesel from a depot in the Jalil Gate area of Salimpur in the evening. Officials noted that an organised group had been illegally siphoning fuel from vessels and depots during transport and storing it secretly.
The operations were overseen by Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Abdullah Al Mamun, with senior district administration officials, police, and members of intelligence agencies present.
Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mia stated that the drives against illegal fuel hoarding began on March 27. ‘Earlier, 6,000 litres of diesel were recovered. Today, about 25,000 litres were seized in Salimpur. Our intelligence agencies are working effectively to prevent illegal hoarding,’ he said.
He warned that individuals creating artificial shortages to exploit consumers would face strict legal action. ‘Those who hoard fuel and manipulate supply are criminals, not businessmen. They will be brought under the law and punished,’ he said.
Addressing public concerns about fuel shortages, the deputy commissioner assured that the country has sufficient fuel supply. ‘We have adequate stocks of octane, petrol, and diesel. People should collect fuel as needed and avoid panic buying. Anyone attempting to hoard fuel illegally will face action,’ he added.
Authorities mentioned that several fuel-carrying vessels have recently arrived in Chattogram, with additional shipments expected.
The district administration stated that mobile courts and enforcement drives have maintained discipline in the fuel sector. To date, 98 operations have been conducted, with fines totaling Tk 4 to 4.5 lakh and 18 to 20 cases filed. Officials added that the crackdown on illegal hoarding and overpricing will continue to ensure fair supply.