In a major crackdown on black market operations, Delhi Police’s Crime Branch uncovered a massive illegal hoarding of LPG cylinders in the Mundka area of outer Delhi. Acting on a tip-off, the Anti-Extortion and Kidnapping Cell raided a warehouse, seizing a staggering 610 commercial LPG cylinders from various brands, including filled and empty ones.
The operation targeted ‘Guruji Indene Gas Service’ located at specific plots in Mundka. Despite holding a license only for Indene cylinders, the godown was stocked with cylinders from Bharat Gas and HP Gas as well, in blatant violation of regulations. The haul included 423 Indene cylinders (133 filled, 290 empty), 92 Bharat Gas cylinders (17 filled, 75 empty), and 95 HP Gas cylinders (47 filled, 27 empty standard, and 21 small empty ones). Additionally, 26 Indene lots were recovered.
Inspector Amit Solanki led the team, which comprised several sub-inspectors and head constables, under the supervision of ACP Pankaj Arora and DCP Sanjeev Kumar Yadav. Verification with Indian Oil Corporation revealed that as of March 10, 2025, no Indene cylinders should have been present at the site, exposing serious discrepancies in inventory.
This hoarding poses dual threats: economic sabotage through black marketing during shortages, inflating prices for consumers and small businesses, and a severe fire hazard from improper storage of highly flammable gas cylinders. Food Supply Department officer Vikas Kumar confirmed the illegality of storing rival brand cylinders.
An FIR has been registered under the Essential Commodities Act 1955 and Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita Section 61(2). The warehouse owner remains at large, with police intensifying efforts to apprehend him and unravel the entire supply chain. Investigations continue to expose any broader network involved in this dangerous racket.
Authorities urge the public to purchase LPG only from authorized dealers and report suspicious activities promptly to prevent such risks.