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DHAKA, April 9, 2026 (BSS) - The Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) seized over 1.42 lakh litres of edible oil and imposed fines totaling Tk 6.2 lakh during a nationwide drive conducted through nine mobile courts.

The drive carried out on Wednesday across multiple regions, was part of an intensified effort to prevent artificial shortages and curb illegal hoarding of essential commodities, RAB officials said.

During the drives, authorities detected an unusually large volume of edible oil stockpiled by traders, raising concerns over possible market manipulation.

Mobile courts, led by executive magistrates, took immediate legal action against those found responsible. The fines were imposed for offences including illegal stockpiling and attempts to influence market prices.

RAB officials stated that such drives will continue to ensure market stability and protect consumers from unfair price hikes. 

They also warned traders against engaging in hoarding and black-market activities, emphasizing strict enforcement of laws to maintain supply chain transparency.

The drive is part of a broader government initiative aimed at safeguarding the availability and affordability of essential goods across the country.