Five arrested in Hyderabad for running illegal LPG cylinder refilling operation

Hyderabad authorities have apprehended five individuals suspected of operating an illegal LPG refilling racket in the city. The arrests came after investigators uncovered a scheme in which gas cylinders were being improperly refilled and sold to unsuspecting consumers.

The accused have been identified as Alle Sai Kumar, Dalmova Vineeth Kumar, D. Praveen Kumar, Makadia Ameet Kumar and Pusa Ganesh. Police have leveled charges of cheating and endangering public safety against them, invoking Sections 318(4), 287, 288 and 125 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita, along with provisions under the Essential Commodities Act and Explosives Act.

How the racket was discovered

The illegal operation came to light when Ashok Tiwari filed a complaint with Goshamahal Police on May 1. Tiwari reported receiving an Indane gas cylinder that weighed approximately 28 kg, well below the standard weight of 30.4 kg. He further noted that cylinders supplied to him in the past had depleted much faster than expected, raising his suspicions.

Upon investigation, Tiwari identified personnel associated with Siddhartha Enterprises as the likely culprits behind the scheme. Acting on this lead, police apprehended the suspects and brought them in for questioning.

Seizures and evidence

During the operation, law enforcement seized substantial quantities of equipment and cylinders. The haul included two commercial cylinders, seven domestic cylinders, twelve smaller cylinders, and one refilling kit. The seized materials are now being held as evidence.

The accused were subsequently produced before a court, which ordered their remand in judicial custody pending further proceedings.

Public advisory

Police have urged residents to remain vigilant when receiving LPG deliveries. Authorities recommend weighing cylinders upon delivery to ensure they meet prescribed standards and to immediately report any suspicious delivery practices to the nearest police station.

Golconda Zone DCP G. Chandra Mohan and ACP K. Chandra Shekar Reddy supervised the operation.