Jharsuguda: Police have busted an alleged racket involved in the illegal manufacture and distribution of diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) in Jharsuguda district, arresting eight persons, including individuals from Rajasthan and Chhattisgarh, an official said on Monday.
DEF is used in modern diesel vehicles to reduce harmful emissions by converting nitrogen oxides into nitrogen and water.
Acting on a tip-off, a police team raided a unit operating at Siriabagicha on Friday and seized large quantities of DEF, suspected adulterants, urea, machinery and two vehicles, said Jharsuguda Superintendent of Police G R Raghavendra.
According to the police, the accused were allegedly preparing counterfeit DEF by mixing urea with water and packaging the product in containers carrying labels of different automobile brands. The material was reportedly being supplied to various locations in Odisha and neighbouring Chhattisgarh.
The SP said officials from the industries, agriculture and other relevant departments were brought into the investigation to examine the authenticity, source and lawful use of the seized materials and machinery, given the technical and regulatory aspects involved in the case.
Seven accused were apprehended during the raid, while the alleged mastermind of the operation was arrested from Jaipur on Sunday, police said.
Further investigation is underway to ascertain the scale of the operation and identify possible supply links, officials added.
Police have also cautioned vehicle owners, transport operators, fuel tank dealers and farmers against the use of unauthorised DEF products and the diversion of subsidised agricultural urea for illegal commercial activities.
