Belagavi: In a manner similar to gold smuggling, a massive racket illegally transporting diesel from Gulf nations to Karnataka has been uncovered by the Malamaruti police in Belagavi. This illegal operation was causing a tax loss of crores of rupees to both the Central and State governments.

How was the Police Operation Conducted?

The police received credible information that diesel was being illegally transported from Mumbai to Bengaluru via Belagavi in a tanker. Following this, a team led by Inspector B.R. Gaddekar conducted a raid, exposing the smuggling operation.

Items Seized:

17,000 liters of diesel were taken into custody.

The value of the seized diesel is approximately ₹17 lakh.

The massive tanker used for transportation was also seized.

Diesel Sold at Half Price!

The diesel, brought illegally from Gulf countries to India, was being sold in the black market at half the standard rate. Information revealed that it was being supplied to various petrol bunks across Maharashtra and Karnataka. Suspicions have been raised regarding the involvement of culprits from Maharashtra and Rajasthan in this network. Currently, the tanker owner, Arihant, a resident of Tumakuru, has been taken into custody for questioning.