Golaghat, Assam | September A police officer in Assam’s Golaghat district has been arrested in connection with an alleged crude oil theft network operating around an ONGC pipeline in the Sarupathar area.

According to investigators, the officer, identified as Dweepen Pator, a Sub-Divisional Police Officer (SDPO) of Sarupathar, is suspected of having links with people allegedly involved in stealing crude oil from the pipeline.

The case came to light after Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC) filed a police complaint on August 3, alleging that crude oil was being illegally extracted from its pipeline in the area.

Investigation Points to Alleged Police Connection

During the investigation, authorities reportedly gathered information suggesting that the arrested officer may have assisted members of the alleged theft network and received money from them. Investigators are examining financial transactions and other evidence to establish the exact nature of the alleged connection.

The allegations are still under investigation, and the accused will be presumed innocent unless proven guilty by a court.

Five People Arrested So Far

With the police officer’s arrest, the number of people arrested in the case has reportedly reached five. A woman is also among those arrested.

Investigators are examining whether additional individuals, including people allegedly connected with the oil company, may have played a role in the suspected network.

Possible Interstate Link

Investigators are also looking into the possibility that crude oil allegedly stolen from the Sarupathar area was transported to West Bengal.

Authorities are expected to investigate the suspected supply chain and identify other people who may have been involved in the alleged operation. Further arrests could follow as the investigation progresses.

The case highlights concerns surrounding the illegal tapping of energy infrastructure and the involvement of organised networks in the theft and transportation of crude oil.