Medchal: In connection with the Chengicherla oil tanker fire incident, the Rachakonda police today arrested oil tanker owners Kulal Raju and his brother Jagdeep of Bheemreddy Nagar under Boduppal and seized three bikes, two cars, 12 petrol tankers and Rs 7.5 lakh cash.
Speaking to the media here on Sunday, Rachakonda Joint Commissioner of Police Tarun Joshi said the accident was first of its kind in south India. Producing the duo before the media, Joshi said the accident occurred when the culprits were looting oil from oil tankers and selling the same after mixing it with kerosene. The accused were running a workshop for this illegal business. He explained that fire broke out when the culprits were looting petrol through welding machine. He said they loot 300 to 400 liters from every oil tanker.
Tarun Joshi said they were investigating the case in an angle whether employees of oil companies have links with the thieves or petrol tanker owners. He also disclosed they have identified another kerosene dump at Ghatkesar area. The police were trying to nab suspects Khadir, Sharpoddin and oil tanker owner Nayeem.
The Joint Commissioner of Police said they pressed special teams to nab the culprits. He also said Rachakonda Police Commissioner Mahesh Bhagavath ordered an inquiry into the role of Medipally police in the entire episode. (NSS)