Photo: BSS

LAKSHMIPUR, April 1, 2026 (BSS) - Police have recovered a large quantity of 
illegally stored diesel from a canal in Ramgati upazila of the district, 
officials confirmed on Wednesday.

According to Ramgati Police Station Officer-in-Charge (OC) Liton Dewan, the 
drive was carried out late Tuesday night (March 31) following a confidential 
tip-off. A special police team conducted a raid in Asal Para area of Ramgati 
Municipality.

During the drive, officers discovered eight plastic drums submerged in the 
canal, apparently hidden to avoid detection. With assistance from local 
workers, the drums were recovered around 12:20 am.

Police said each drum contained approximately 170 litres of diesel, bringing 
the total amount to 1,360 litres. The estimated market value of the seized 
fuel is around Taka 1,36,000.

Authorities believe that the fuel was being stockpiled to create an 
artificial shortage in the market and later sold at inflated prices.
However, the alleged smugglers managed to flee the scene after sensing the 
presence of the law enforcement.

Police stated that the recovered diesel has been taken into custody at 
Ramgati Police Station. 

Law enforcement officials emphasized that efforts are ongoing to identify and 
apprehend those involved in the smuggling operation. "Our drive to dismantle 
this syndicate of unscrupulous traders will continue," said the OC Liton 
Dewan.