While gold smuggling from Gulf countries is frequently reported, Belagavi police have now uncovered a major diesel smuggling racket operating on similar lines. The Malamaruti Police Station has unearthed an organised network involved in illegally transporting diesel and petroleum products from Gulf countries into Karnataka, causing revenue losses running into crores for both the Centre and the State.
The racket came to light following a specific tip-off, when police intercepted a diesel tanker travelling from Mumbai to Bengaluru via Belagavi. During the raid, led by Inspector B.R. Gaddekar, the tanker was found carrying petroleum products without valid documents.
₹17 lakh worth diesel seized
Police seized around 17,000 litres of diesel along with the tanker, together valued at approximately ₹17 lakh. Preliminary investigations revealed the involvement of the tanker owner, Arihant from Tumakuru, indicating the presence of a larger, well-organised network. Police sources suspect links extending to Maharashtra and Rajasthan, and believe the operation has been running undetected for several years.
Smuggling via ships from Gulf
According to investigators, the petroleum products were allegedly brought into India through ships from Gulf countries and diverted before reaching authorised oil corporations. The possible involvement of ship owners and direct links with oil producers in Gulf nations are also being probed.
The illegally imported diesel was reportedly sold at nearly half the market price in Kalasante markets and supplied to fuel outlets across Maharashtra and Karnataka.
Belagavi Police Commissioner Bhushan Borase stated that a detailed, two-pronged investigation is underway, with special teams likely to be sent to Mumbai and Rajasthan to trace the full extent of the network.