Government to reward informers over illegal fuel hoarding

Citizens are urged to give specific complaints or suggestions

The government has moved to collect intelligence on illegal fuel hoarding through newly formed vigilance teams across all districts, with a reward scheme for informants in the pipeline.

On Friday night, the Energy and Mineral Resources Division said vigilance teams have been formed in every district to monitor fuel supply, adding that a reward would be announced for those providing information to stop illegal stockpiling.

Citizens were asked to submit specific complaints or suggestions.

Earlier, the Ministry of Power, Energy and Mineral Resources confirmed the formation of district-level vigilance teams to prevent illegal fuel trade.

It also reported the recovery of an estimated 6,000 litres of diesel during a special drive in Chattogram’s Patenga.

Led by Executive Magistrate Subrato Halder, the operation at Commissioner Ghat saw Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and police seize 30 drums of illegally stored fuel at 10:45am, it said.

While no suspects were apprehended at the scene, the recovered oil remains in police custody.

The ministry is currently processing a formal case under the Relevant Sections of the Special Powers Act, 1974.

Preliminary investigations suggest a “dishonest” syndicate has been siphoning fuel during transit from seagoing vessels and depots to supply local vendors.

"The administration is maintaining a strict stance to ensure discipline in the energy sector and to keep the fuel supply stable," the ministry said.

The government has published contact numbers for these vigilance teams, which are primarily headed by additional district magistrates (ADM).

This crackdown follows a period of rationing triggered by Middle East tensions; although rationing was lifted, many filling stations continue to face high demand or supply shortages.

To bridge the gap between supply and demand, the energy divison is now coordinating daily with district administrators.

Senior officials are holding morning virtual meetings with the managing directors of Padma Oil, Meghna Petroleum, and Jamuna Oil to monitor the situation in real-time.

At the same time, steps are being taken to raise public awareness on saving fuel and electricity through QR codes, banners, school campaigns, messages at places of worship, and leaflet distribution, officials said.