Muzaffarpur: A major illegal LPG refilling racket has been busted in Muzaffarpur amid an ongoing gas shortage, with police seizing multiple vehicles and a tanker during a late-night raid.
Acting on a tip-off, a police team led by DSP Suchitra Kumari conducted a raid in the Nariyar area under Motipur police station limits. Teams from Kanti and Motipur police stations were also involved in the operation.
During the raid, the accused fled the spot, but police recovered key evidence from the scene. Officials said efforts are underway to identify and arrest those involved.
A tanker full of LPG with a Nepali registration number was among the major seizures. Police also recovered a Bolero pickup loaded with gas cylinders, a Toto vehicle used for delivery, refilling equipment, and a large number of filled and empty cylinders.
Preliminary investigation suggests that the gang was illegally refilling small cylinders from tankers in deserted locations. Officials said the process is highly dangerous, as gas was being transferred without proper safety measures.
Police suspect possible cross-border links with Nepal, as indicated by the tanker’s registration. A detailed investigation into the entire network is currently underway.
An FIR has been registered at Motipur police station, and further legal action has been initiated. Officials said the remaining members of the gang will be arrested soon.
The raid has created panic among illegal traders in the area, while local residents have welcomed the police action, hoping it will help control black marketing and ease the gas shortage.
Police said such illegal activities not only violate the law but also pose serious risks to public safety.
