Gujarat Police Bust Oil Theft Racket in Kutch, Seize Rs 4.34 Crore Assets

A case has been registered at Pragpar Police Station under relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, 2023, including Sections 303(2), 306, 316(3), 317(1)(2), 61(2) and 111(2). The arrested individuals, reportedly including labourers employed by one Gafurbhai, tanker drivers, and assistants, hail from Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Jharkhand, Rajasthan, and Bihar. They have been handed over to Pragpar Police Station for further interrogation.

The police have identified five wanted accused: Abdul Gafurbhai Ahmed Halepotra from Adipur in Kutch, Pankajbhai and Dhruvarajsinh Jethva from Anjar, Gopalbhai Gadhvi from Vovar village in Mundra taluka, and Harbhambhai Rabari from Bhimasar. Investigations are ongoing to uncover the full extent of the alleged theft network and the involvement of the wanted persons.

This seizure highlights the continued vigilance of Gujarat Police against organised economic crimes, particularly in sensitive border districts like Kutch. Oil theft operations not only cause significant revenue loss to the state but can also pose serious safety and environmental hazards.

The State Monitoring Cell’s swift action demonstrates effective coordination and intelligence gathering in curbing such illegal activities. Authorities believe this raid could lead to further breakthroughs in dismantling larger smuggling networks operating in the region.

Local residents and transport operators have welcomed the operation, as such thefts often affect legitimate business and public safety. Further investigation is underway, and police have appealed to the public for any additional information that could assist in tracing the wanted accused.

This incident serves as a strong deterrent against similar criminal activities and reinforces the Gujarat Police’s commitment to maintaining law and order while protecting state resources. Updates on the case are expected as the probe progresses.