Doda Police Bust LPG Black-Marketing Racket in Bhaderwah; 75 Cylinders Seized and Three Arrested
DODA, MARCH 14, 2026 — In a major crackdown on the illegal hoarding and black-marketing of essential commodities, the Doda Police executed a successful raid in the Bhaderwah area, resulting in the recovery of 75 LPG cylinders.
Following specific directives from SSP Doda Sandeep Mehta (JKPS), a specialized team from the Bhaderwah Police Station acted on reliable intelligence suggesting that a group was illicitly selling cooking gas to the public at inflated prices. The prompt intervention led to the apprehension of three suspects: Abdul Hamid of Masjid Mohalla, Ghulam Rasool of Kishtwar (currently residing in Pasari), and Mohd Sakhi of Doda (currently residing in Chakka).
During the detailed search operation, authorities recovered a significant stockpile of both filled and empty units. Specifically, Abdul Hamid was found in possession of eight filled and 15 empty cylinders, while Ghulam Rasool held 28 filled and 24 empty units, bringing the total joint recovery to 75 cylinders.
In response to these findings, the police have formally registered Case FIR No. 29/2026 under Sections 3 and 7 of the Essential Commodities Act at the Bhaderwah Police Station.
An intensive investigation has been launched to determine the full scale of the syndicate and identify any further collaborators involved in these exploitative practices.
The Doda Police have reaffirmed their commitment to the “People First” mission, warning that strict legal action will continue against anyone found hoarding or black-marketing items essential to the general public’s daily life.
This operation is seen as a vital step in protecting consumers from artificial shortages and ensuring the fair distribution of fuel during the ongoing month of Ramzan. By dismantling such rackets, the department aims to maintain market stability and uphold the rule of law across the district.