A mobile court in Cumilla’s Sadar South area has imposed fines totalling Tk 60,000 on two business entities over allegations of selling fuel at prices higher than the government-fixed rate and operating without the required licences for storing and trading flammable petroleum products. The operation also resulted in the seizure of illegally stored fuel, which authorities later directed to be sold to consumers at regulated prices.
The enforcement drive was carried out on Sunday afternoon, 19 April, under the supervision of the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) of Cumilla Sadar South. It was executed by Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate Sazib Talukdar, with support from a specialised security force unit deployed to ensure operational safety and compliance.
According to officials, a business named Hossain Enterprise, located in the Rajapara North Chowmuhani area under Sadar South Police Station, had allegedly been selling petrol, diesel, and octane at inflated prices for an extended period without holding a valid fuel distribution licence. Following verification of the complaints, the mobile court fined the establishment Tk 50,000 under the Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009.
During the same raid, authorities confiscated 48 litres of octane from the premises. The court further instructed that the seized fuel must be sold to local consumers in controlled quantities—no more than two litres per buyer—strictly at government-approved rates to prevent consumer exploitation.
In a separate finding, another business was penalised for obstructing the investigation process and providing misleading information. Officials reported that the entity had allegedly concealed stockpiles of fuel in an undisclosed location and attempted to misdirect the inspection team. As a result, a fine of Tk 10,000 was imposed under the Petroleum Act, 2016.
Authorities emphasised that improper storage and unlicensed trading of flammable fuel pose significant safety risks, including fire hazards and potential public endangerment. They further stated that routine enforcement drives will continue to curb illegal fuel trading and ensure market discipline.
Summary of Enforcement Action
| Business Name | Allegation | Fine Imposed | Applicable Law |
|---|---|---|---|
| Hossain Enterprise | Excess pricing of fuel; operating without valid licence | Tk 50,000 | Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009 |
| Unnamed entity | Obstruction of investigation; providing false information | Tk 10,000 | Petroleum Act, 2016 |
The administration has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining stability in the fuel market. Officials said intensified monitoring will continue to protect consumers from irregular pricing, illegal stockpiling, and market manipulation that could disrupt supply chains and public safety.