Mufferah Majeed khuroo
Baramulla, July 13, 2023, in Baramulla, the Baramulla Police apprehended a shopkeeper from Palhallan village on charges of selling petroleum products illegally and at exorbitant rates. The arrest comes at a time when the region is grappling with a shortage of petrol/diesel due to the closure of National Highway 44 due to a landslide.
Acting on a tip-off received from vigilant locals, a team of Baramulla Police, led by Sh Mohd Nawaz-JKPS, SDPO Pattan, and PSI Aeraf Niyaz, IC PP Palhallan, raided the shop belonging to Mr.Mehraj Din Mir, S/O Ghulam Mohiuddin Mir, a prominent shopkeeper in Palhallan. The raid resulted in the recovery of a staggering 187 liters of petrol/diesel, which were being sold in violation of the Essential Commodities and Petroleum Act.
The closure of NH44 has disrupted the regular supply of essential goods, including petrol and diesel, leading to a scarcity and subsequently skyrocketing prices in the black market.
Mr. Mehraj has been booked under relevant sections of the Essential Commodities and Petroleum Act, which prohibit the hoarding, black-marketing, and illegal sale of essential commodities, including petroleum products.
The arrest of the Palhallan shopkeeper serves as a stern warning to others involved in similar illegal activities. The Baramulla Police have reiterated their commitment to maintaining the rule of law and ensuring the well-being of the community by cracking down on black-market operations and ensuring fair distribution of essential commodities.
The Baramulla Police remain dedicated to upholding the law and protecting the welfare of the residents. Their swift action against the Palhallan shopkeeper sends a clear message that illegal activities will not be tolerated, especially during times of scarcity. The Baramulla Police is dedicated to ensuring that the citizens are protected from such malpractices.