Dera ismail khan: The district administration launched a major crackdown on illegal diesel agencies and suspected smuggled petroleum products in the district, seizing around 200,000 litres of fuel and shutting down several unauthorized dispensing units during a joint operation.
The operation was led by Assistant Commissioner Dr. Muhammad Hamid Siddiq in collaboration with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), Pakistan Customs, district police and Civil Defence. The raids were carried out at multiple locations, including Eastern Circular Road, Bannu Road and Bypass Road, where authorities inspected premises allegedly involved in the illegal storage and sale of diesel and petrol.
During the operation, five illegal diesel dispensing units were confiscated while 12 others were sealed. Officials also recovered approximately 150,000 litres of diesel and 50,000 litres of petrol suspected to have been smuggled into the country.
Authorities further seized dispensing equipment, pipelines, fittings, fire extinguishers and five expired fire extinguishers. Later, all seized petroleum products and equipment were handed over to Pakistan Customs for safe custody and further legal action.
The district administration also recommended that Pakistan Customs confiscate the suspected smuggled petroleum products under the relevant provisions of the Customs Act and initiate legal proceedings against those involved.
Speaking on the occasion, Assistant Commissioner Dr. Muhammad Hamid Siddiq said the district administration remained committed to protecting public safety, curbing illegal businesses, preventing the sale of smuggled petroleum products, safeguarding government revenue and ensuring strict enforcement of the law. He said indiscriminate action against those involved in unauthorized fuel storage, illegal petroleum trade and the sale of smuggled fuel would be continue.