The government has launched an investigation into a Rs 135 billion scam involving the illegal import of a hazardous petrol adulterant, which was misrepresented as an industrial chemical.
As per a news report, the scandal came to light when over 800 tankers carrying the dangerous substance were intercepted, prompting the formation of a fact-finding committee.
The seven-member committee, established by the Petroleum Division, has been tasked with investigating the import, clearance, and sale of Light Aliphatic Hydrocarbon Solvent in violation of the Petroleum Act 1969 and the Petroleum Rules 1937.
The committee, chaired by Additional Secretary Petroleum Hasan Mehmood Yousufzai, includes representatives from the Hydrocarbon Development Institute of Pakistan, the Engineering Development Board, and Pakistan Customs. The committee is required to present its findings and assign responsibility within a week.
The investigation follows a report by Customs Intelligence, which uncovered the scam in May. However, it remained under wraps until the Prime Minister’s office intervened on July 29, halting the illegal activities. As a result, 807 tankers, including 160 Iranian tankers, are currently stranded at the NLC Dry Port in Quetta.
The importers were allegedly importing the solvent and selling it as petrol, with the involvement of customs officials and laboratory personnel. The adulterant, when mixed with petrol, caused significant damage to vehicles and financial losses for consumers and the national treasury.
