Jahangirpura police in Surat have busted an alleged industrial chemical pilferage racket operating on a highway near the city, arresting three people and seizing vehicles, chemicals and other material worth around ₹1.20 crore.
Police said the gang allegedly targeted tankers carrying industrial chemicals and siphoned off part of the consignments for illegal sale. Three accused were arrested during the operation, while three others managed to flee and are being traced.
The arrested men have been identified as Ladu alias Lokesh Khatik, Suresh Khatik and Shahrukh Makrani.
FCRF’s Chief AI Officer Certification Returns on November 14 to Prepare Future AI Leaders
Tanker Drivers Suspected of Helping the Racket
Police said the absconding suspects include drivers of the tankers from which the chemicals were allegedly being stolen.
Investigators suspect the drivers played an insider role by facilitating access to the consignments while the tankers were in transit.
The alleged involvement of tanker drivers is now being examined as part of the wider investigation into how the chemicals were diverted and moved for illegal sale.
Vehicles and Chemicals Worth ₹1.20 Crore Seized
During the raid, police seized two tankers along with the chemicals they were carrying, a mini truck allegedly used to transport the stolen material, two 200-litre plastic containers and mobile phones.
The total value of the seized material was estimated at around ₹1.20 crore.
Investigators said the vehicles, storage containers and other equipment indicated a systematic operation designed to siphon, store and transport substantial quantities of industrial chemicals without immediate detection.
Police Probe Buyers and Supply Chain
A case has been registered for negligent conduct involving explosive substances and combustible matter, dishonestly receiving stolen property, criminal breach of trust and theft.
Police have also invoked provisions of the Explosives Act relating to the unauthorised possession, use, sale or transport of explosive substances.
Police records show that Ladulal and Suresh had previously been arrested in similar cases involving the theft of valuables during transportation.
Further investigation is underway to identify the full supply chain, trace possible buyers of the stolen chemicals and determine the role of the three absconding accused.
About the author — Suvedita Nath is a science student with a growing interest in cybercrime and digital safety. She writes on online activity, cyber threats, and technology-driven risks. Her work focuses on clarity, accuracy, and public awareness.
Follow for daily updates on cybercrime, corporate fraud, DFIR, hacking, investigations, and digital forensics
