Dehradun: A major raid in Champawat district has exposed black marketing of LPG cylinders amid the ongoing shortage. Police and administration teams recovered
65 cylinders hidden inside a ruined poultry farm boundary wall in Parmanandpur village. The operation also revealed marijuana and raw liquor stored at the site.
Officials confirmed that 53 cylinders were empty while 16 were filled. The raid was conducted after SDM Abhay Pratap Singh and Tehsildar Pankaj Chandola received a tip-off about illegal storage. The recovered cylinders were handed over to the Food and Supplies Department, while police seized 3.17 kilograms of marijuana and 100 liters of raw liquor.
Journalist’s Role in Black Marketing
The accused has been identified as Zubair Ali, a resident of Rampur district in Uttar Pradesh. He is said to be a journalist who allegedly used his local influence to run a black market for gas cylinders. Investigations revealed that Ali operated under the guise of a bidi and cigarette kiosk, while secretly hoarding and selling LPG cylinders at inflated prices.
Authorities further disclosed that Ali had been involved in similar activities earlier. About a year ago, Rampur police had taken action against him in Maswasi for black marketing of cylinders. Current investigations suggest he also maintained another hideout in Sultanpur Patti area, where he continued the illegal trade.
Administration’s Strict Stand
SDM Abhay Pratap Singh stated that the District Magistrate has issued strict instructions to curb black marketing of LPG cylinders. A secret team has been formed to monitor such activities, and strict action will be taken against anyone found guilty.
Police have detained Zubair Ali and are questioning him to uncover the full extent of his network. Authorities suspect that the illegal trade may involve multiple locations and accomplices.
Public Concern
The incident has sparked concern among residents, who are already struggling with LPG shortages. Black marketing not only exploits consumers but also creates safety risks due to improper storage of cylinders. The recovery of drugs and liquor alongside cylinders highlights how criminal networks often combine multiple illegal trades.
