Manikganj Fuel Traders Fined for Illegal Hoarding

The Directorate of National Consumer Rights Protection (DNCRP) has penalised two commercial enterprises in Manikganj district for the illegal hoarding of fuel and the sale of petroleum products at inflated prices. During a series of coordinated raids conducted on Wednesday, 22 April 2026, the authorities imposed total fines amounting to BDT 175,000 against the offending traders.

Incident Overview and Investigative Findings

The operations were spearheaded by Asaduzzaman Rumel, Assistant Director of the DNCRP Manikganj district office, following specific intelligence provided by the National Security Intelligence (NSI). The raids targeted key commercial hubs within the Manikganj Municipality and Manikganj Sadar Upazila to address growing concerns regarding artificial supply shortages.

In the Hijuli Market area of Manikganj Municipality, officials inspected an establishment named Rishad Enterprise. The proprietor, Md. Arifur Rahman (also known as Arif), had reportedly been engaged in the clandestine stockpiling of fuel for an extended period. During a thorough search of the premises and its surroundings, law enforcement discovered approximately 140 litres of petrol concealed within a neighbouring maize field. The fuel had been stored in plastic drums and hidden inside sacks to evade detection.

Simultaneously, a separate drive was conducted at Milan Enterprise in Rajibpur Market, located within the Sadar Upazila. Investigative officers found conclusive evidence that the proprietor, Mr Milan, was selling diesel at rates significantly exceeding the government-mandated prices.

Summary of Penalties and Legal Actions

The following table outlines the specific violations and the subsequent administrative fines imposed under the Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009:

Enforcement and Official Statements

The DNCRP was supported in these operations by members of the Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) and Shamsunnabi Tulip, the President of the Manikganj District Branch of the Consumers Association of Bangladesh (CAB).

Assistant Director Asaduzzaman Rumel emphasised that these measures are essential to prevent the creation of artificial crises in the energy market. He stated that the unauthorised hoarding of essential commodities like fuel not only exploits the general public but also destabilises the local economy.

Under Section 45 of the Consumer Rights Protection Act, 2009, the authorities have the mandate to penalise businesses that fail to display price lists or sell goods at prices higher than those stipulated. The Directorate has reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining market stability and protecting consumer interests through continued surveillance and rigorous enforcement of the law. Future operations are expected to be intensified to ensure that traders adhere to ethical business practices and government regulations.