Delhi Police Bust Illegal LPG Hoarding Operation, Three Arrested

In a significant operation, Delhi Police arrested three men for allegedly hoarding and supplying liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders illegally. The arrests were made in Mahipalpur, where authorities seized a substantial number of filled and used cylinders. This crackdown is part of a larger effort to address illegal trade amid ongoing energy supply disruptions linked to conflicts in West Asia. The government has urged citizens to avoid panic buying and consider alternatives like piped natural gas. Read on for more details about this operation and its implications.

By Narendra Chaudhary Mar 23, 2026, 12:26 IST

Police Action Against LPG Hoarding

On Saturday, authorities in Delhi apprehended three individuals in the Mahipalpur region for their alleged involvement in the illegal hoarding and distribution of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) cylinders.

The arrested suspects have been identified as Krishna (33), Dinesh Sahu (46), and Mithilesh (39), according to police reports.

During the operation, law enforcement officials confiscated 70 domestic LPG cylinders and four commercial ones. Reports indicate that out of the domestic cylinders, 54 were filled while 16 had already been used. Additionally, three of the commercial cylinders were also filled.

Authorities claim that these individuals had been engaged in the unlawful supply of LPG cylinders in the area for the past three years.

The arrests followed a police raid prompted by a tip-off, during which the suspects were unable to provide valid licenses for the storage and sale of the cylinders.

Deputy Commissioner of Police (South-West) Amit Goel stated that this operation is part of a broader initiative to combat the illegal trade of essential goods.

A first information report has been lodged, and an investigation is currently in progress.

Just last week, the Delhi Police seized approximately 700 LPG cylinders that were reportedly being hoarded in various warehouses and shops.

This crackdown coincides with energy supply challenges stemming from ongoing conflicts in West Asia.

In response to attacks from the United States and Israel, Iran has effectively restricted access to the strategic Strait of Hormuz, a vital passage for international commercial vessels, impacting around 20% of the global petroleum supply.

This situation has had repercussions for LPG supplies in India, which imports about 60% of its LPG needs, primarily from Gulf nations. The disruptions have resulted in temporary closures of several eateries and long lines at LPG distribution centers.

The government has advised the public to avoid succumbing to rumors and panic buying. It has also encouraged consumers who can transition from LPG to piped natural gas to do so promptly.