Cops bust diesel theft racket in Jaipur, 4 detained

JAIPUR: The city police on Wednesday unearthed a major diesel theft racket operating in Rajawas area for past one year. Police have detained at least four suspects in the case.
The police were taken aback after they discovered several small pipes illegally connected with the main underground diesel distribution line. Sources informed TOI that pipes were found to be supplying diesel to three houses, where scores of plastic drums were found brimming with illegally procured diesel.
“These barrel drums were being used to supply diesel into the black market. It is not easy to break the underground line as there are several anti-theft alarm systems,” said an official, adding that the collusion of oil company officials cannot be ruled out yet. The city police have detained at least four suspects in the case and till late in the night, different units were raiding nearby localities. “We have unearthed a stockpile of diesel at a house. From there, the stolen oil was packed onto trucks and tractors for smuggling,” the official added.
DCP Vikas Sharma said that investigation was at a very early stage. However, highly placed sources confirmed the involvement of a gang. “The matter came to light when at a check point, cops intercepted a pick-up vehicle supplying diesel. When the cops interrogated him, he failed to provide a satisfactory answer,” the official said.