The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) and Pakistan State Oil (PSO) arrested two suspects during a joint operation in Islamabad. Officials caught the accused red-handed while allegedly stealing diesel from the main PSO pipeline in Sihala Bhaga on Friday.
According to an FIA spokesperson, the raid exposed an organized network involved in illegal diesel theft from the Sihala Depot pipeline. Authorities launched the operation after receiving a tip-off about suspicious activity near the jump stop in Sihala Bhaga.
FIA Uncovers Six-Month Fuel Theft Network
Investigators said the suspects tampered with a secondary pipeline to extract diesel from the main supply line. They allegedly transferred the stolen fuel into drums before selling it on the black market.
Moreover, officials believe the illegal network remained active for the past six months. According to the investigation, the suspects extracted nearly 20,000 liters of diesel from the pipeline every day.
PSO’s initial assessment estimated losses exceeding Rs 100 million to the national exchequer. However, authorities said the exact financial impact will become clearer after further investigations.
Investigation Expands to Identify Other Suspects
Meanwhile, authorities registered a case against the arrested suspects under relevant laws. Investigators have also started examining the involvement of other individuals linked to the network.
Furthermore, officials will determine whether any government employee assisted the alleged fuel theft operation. The FIA said the investigation remains ongoing, and additional arrests could follow if evidence identifies more suspects.
Authorities emphasized that the crackdown reflects continued efforts to protect national resources and curb organized fuel theft. They added that legal action will proceed against everyone found responsible for the alleged crime.
