Vehicle carrying 60 LPG cylinders seized in Assam's Bongaigaon; black marketing suspected

A vehicle carrying LPG cylinders was seized by police in Assam's Bongaigaon district after local residents allegedly detained it on suspicion of illegal transportation and possible black marketing of cooking gas cylinders.

According to local sources, residents of Kirtanpara market intercepted the vehicle on Thursday night and informed Borghola Police about the matter. The vehicle was reportedly carrying around 60 LPG cylinders.

The seizure comes at a time when consumers and commercial establishments in several areas are reportedly facing a shortage of LPG cylinders. Local residents questioned how such a large consignment of cylinders from a gas agency in Panbari area of Chirang district was allegedly being transported to an individual identified as Salam from Dumuria in Abhayapuri.

Residents have alleged that the cylinders may have been intended for sale in the black market, where LPG cylinders are reportedly sold at prices ranging from Rs 1,500 to Rs 2,000 per cylinder. However, these allegations have not been independently verified.

The incident has sparked concern among consumers, particularly as several hotels and restaurants are reportedly facing difficulties due to shortages of cooking gas.

Meanwhile, allegations have also surfaced that journalists who reached the spot to cover the incident were prevented from gathering information by police personnel. There was no immediate response from the police regarding the allegation.

An investigation is expected to ascertain the legality of the transportation and the intended destination of the cylinders.