Govt announces up to Tk100,000 reward to expose fuel hoarders

The government has announced a reward of up to Tk 1,00,000 for information leading to the identification of individuals hoarding or illegally trafficking fuel.

The announcement was made on Monday (March 30) by the Ministry of Power, Energy, and Mineral Resources.

According to the official statement, credible tips submitted to local authorities will be verified, and informants’ identities will be kept confidential.

Authorities said recent efforts to stabilise fuel supply and the market have been undermined by unscrupulous actors creating artificial shortages, causing public inconvenience and market volatility.

Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation Chairman Md. Rejanur Rahman noted that government fuel supply was nearly doubled from March 1–5 compared to last year to meet demand. Despite this, panic buying and illegal stockpiling by hoarders have continued to strain the market.

To tackle the issue, vigilance teams have been formed in all districts, “tag officers” deployed at fuel stations, and nationwide enforcement operations intensified. Penalties, imprisonment, and strict legal action are being taken against violators.

Officials stressed that increasing public participation in reporting irregularities is key to quickly restoring market stability.