World · India Bureau
Assam Police Officer Arrested in ONGC Pipeline Theft Probe
An Assam Police officer has been arrested following an investigation into an alleged crude oil theft racket involving the puncturing of an Oil and Natural Gas Corporation pipeline in Sarupathar. The officer's alleged involvement came to light during enquiries into the widespread smuggling operation.
LSN India ·
The arrest marks a significant development in the investigation into organised theft of crude oil from ONGC infrastructure in Assam's Golaghat district. Authorities have been probing an elaborate scheme in which unidentified individuals allegedly punctured a functioning ONGC pipeline to siphon off crude oil for illegal sale and distribution.
The police officer's name emerged during the course of the investigation, suggesting potential links between law enforcement personnel and the theft racket. The involvement of a serving officer has raised concerns about possible complicity in enabling the criminal network to operate with relative impunity.
The Sarupathar pipeline incident represents one of several attempts to tap into ONGC's crude oil supply network in the region. Such thefts not only result in substantial financial losses but also pose environmental hazards and compromise national energy security infrastructure.
The investigation is continuing as authorities work to uncover the full extent of the racket and identify other individuals involved in the operation. The case underscores growing concerns about organised crime targeting critical petroleum infrastructure in the state.