Jeypore (Koraput): Police have arrested 11 persons in connection with a diesel theft case under Koraput Sadar police limits, while eight others, including the alleged masterminds, remain absconding.
The arrested include five youths accused of stealing nearly 470 litres of diesel from a truck in Podagarh area and six shopkeepers who allegedly purchased the stolen fuel for resale. Police have seized the stolen diesel, a vehicle, a motorcycle and five mobile phones from their possession.
Koraput SDPO Sanjay Mandal said the main accused, identified as Tuna Harijan and Dhanurjay Parja, are among those still on the run. Efforts are underway to trace and apprehend them.
According to police, the case came to light after a complaint was lodged by Dillip Rath, a resident of Podagarh, on March 17. Rath, who owns container vehicles, reported that around 450–470 litres of diesel had been stolen from his garage during the night.
Acting on the complaint, a police team was formed under the supervision of the IIC of Sadar police station following directions from the SP. CCTV footage from the garage helped police identify one of the accused, Dhanurjay Parja, who is currently absconding.
During the investigation, police first arrested five persons directly involved in the theft and later nabbed six shopkeepers who had allegedly bought the stolen diesel to sell in their shops.
Police suspect the crime may have been driven by fuel shortage in the area. Further investigation is underway.
