In a unique modus operandi, a few persons had taken a plot with some construction on it in Uttam Nagar area and were using it to transfer the oil from the pipeline of the Indian Oil Corporation Ltd (IOCL) situated near the plot. A case has been registered against the owner of the land and against the tenant. No arrests have been made as yet.
The matter came to light when IOC officials along with a security team went on patrolling last Tuesday morning as constant pressure changes were reported in the pipeline.
During patrolling the officials noticed some wet patches and sniffed an unusual smell, most likely the smell of oil. It was further found that more such patches were there in an empty plot in Bhagwati Garden Extension. The police was then informed.
In a joint operation with IOC, Delhi Police carried out a raid in the plot and found some construction which was being used to store the oil.
The oil was transferred through a hole in the main pipeline. The raid was conducted in the presence of one Radheshyam who was the caretaker of the plot.
“These men, along with the police then got the spot dug up and stacks of plastic sacks were found underneath which were covering an iron grill. After the grill was removed, a reservoir full of oil was found. There was also a wooden ladder inside the pit which had oil filled up to 8 feet,” an officer said.
According to the police, the owner of the land has been identified as one Ashok Kumar, a resident of Pashchim Vihar.
“A case has been registered after a complaint in this regard was lodged by Ashish Kumar, Senior Operation and Maintenance Engineer, Indian Oil Corporation Limited, Pipeline Division.
“We have booked the case under IPC Sections 379 (Punishment for theft), 285 (Negligent conduct with respect to fire or combustible matter), 120B (Punishment of criminal conspiracy) and other relevant sections along with Explosive Substance Act 1908,” said a senior police official.