BGB tightens surveillance at Sylhet border amid oil smuggling fears

Security measures have been tightened at depots and border areas in Sylhet amid concerns over fuel smuggling fears. The BGB has recently deployed additional members to ensure the security of fuel oil, a nationally important asset.

The BGB said that its members have taken charge at two depots in Sylhet city since March 25. A platoon of BGB’s Zakiganj Battalion 19 is on duty at the Sylhet depot of Jamuna Oil Company Limited and another platoon of BGB’s Sylhet Battalion 48 is on duty at the Padma Oil PLC depot. These members are regularly patrolling inside and around the depots to keep the security situation under control.

Surveillance has also been increased to see if there are any irregularities in the supply system. In particular, the BGB is closely monitoring whether oil is being supplied from the depot beyond demand or whether it is being stored somewhere to create an artificial crisis.

In addition, intelligence surveillance and patrolling activities have been increased to prevent smuggling along the border. Regular checks are being carried out to check whether Indian big trucks and dumpers carrying coal and limestone through LCP points in the area of responsibility are involved in oil smuggling while returning.

Security has also been strengthened at oil pumps in the area of responsibility in coordination with the owners. In addition to adding more manpower considering the situation, round-the-clock monitoring is continuing, said the concerned officials.