A traditional fisherman’s transformation into the alleged mastermind of a multi-crore theft racket has come to light following a recent crackdown. Chandrakant Patil, a resident of Raigad, is accused of systematically targeting offshore platforms of Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), stealing high-value equipment over the years and funnelling it into the scrap market for massive profits.
From Fisherman to Crime Mastermind: 2009 ONGC Theft Origin
Investigations reveal that Patil was once engaged in routine fishing activities but his alleged entry into crime dates back to 2009. During an early theft at an ONGC offshore installation, he is believed to have realised the high resale value of industrial batteries and copper cables. That incident, which reportedly caused losses exceeding ₹2 crore, is said to have laid the foundation for what later evolved into an organised racket.
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Night Operations: Targeting Vulnerable ONGC Platforms
According to investigators, Patil gradually abandoned fishing and shifted entirely to targeting offshore infrastructure. He allegedly identified certain ONGC platforms as vulnerable due to relatively low surveillance during specific hours. Operating mostly at night, he is said to have used small fishing boats to access these installations, remove valuable equipment such as battery banks, solar panels and copper wiring, and transport them swiftly to the mainland for disposal in scrap markets.
Recent Arrests: ₹90 Lakh Battery Banks Recovered
The racket came under scrutiny after four separate theft cases were registered in March, leading to the arrest of three accused—Dattatray Patil (36), Santosh Patil (40) and Vitthal Mhatre (32). Authorities recovered 47 stolen battery banks worth approximately ₹90 lakh from their possession, along with a fishing boat valued at around ₹15 lakh, allegedly used to reach offshore platforms.
During the operation to apprehend Chandrakant Patil in the coastal region of Raigad, he reportedly attempted a dramatic escape. Investigators said he jumped out of a moving autorickshaw and later tried to evade capture by leaping into the water. However, he was eventually caught after a brief chase.
13 Theft Cases Across Mumbai, Raigad, Navi Mumbai
Police records indicate that Chandrakant Patil has as many as 13 theft cases registered against him. Of these, seven cases are linked to Mumbai’s Yellow Gate jurisdiction, where he allegedly targeted four ONGC platforms, causing losses of nearly ₹1 crore. Additional cases have been registered in Mandwa, Vadkhal, Alibaug, Navi Panvel and Uran, pointing to a wide operational spread.
Investigators suspect that the operation extends beyond a single individual and may involve an organised network. The role of scrap dealers is also under scrutiny, as they are believed to have facilitated the disposal of stolen materials. Officials believe more accomplices could be involved and efforts are underway to identify the broader network.
The case has raised serious concerns over the security of offshore installations. Experts suggest that enhanced surveillance systems and stronger technological safeguards are necessary to prevent such incidents in the future.
For now, the investigation remains ongoing, with authorities focusing on uncovering the full extent of the network behind what appears to be a long-running ‘sea-to-scrap’ racket.
