Illegal Fertilizer Smuggling from Sinapali to Chhattisgarh Foiled: 126 Quintals of DAP Seized, Assets Worth ₹8.78 Lakh Confiscated

Sinapali/Devbhog, June 26 In a major crackdown aimed at protecting farmers’ interests and curbing the black marketing of fertilizers, the Gariaband Police have achieved a significant success by intercepting a large consignment of illegally transported DAP (Di-Ammonium Phosphate) fertilizer. The Devbhog Police seized 126 quintals of DAP fertilizer being transported illegally from Sinapali (Odisha) towards Chhattisgarh. Along with the fertilizer, an Eicher goods vehicle was also confiscated, taking the total value of the seized property to approximately ₹8.78 lakh, police said. According to police sources, a tip-off was received that a truck bearing registration number CG-07-CK-3719 was transporting a huge quantity of DAP fertilizer illegally through the Tentulikhuti area under Devbhog Police Station limits. Acting swiftly on the information, a police team intercepted the vehicle and conducted a thorough inspection. During the search, officers recovered 280 bags of DAP fertilizer. Each bag weighed 45 kilograms, amounting to a total of 12,600 kilograms (126 quintals). The seized fertilizer is valued at around ₹3.78 lakh, while the Eicher vehicle is estimated to be worth ₹5 lakh. The driver, Yudhishthir Danta (42), was asked to produce valid documents authorizing the transportation of the fertilizer. However, he failed to furnish any satisfactory records. Suspecting illegal transportation, the police seized both the fertilizer and the vehicle and initiated legal proceedings. The matter has also been reported to the Agriculture Department. Police and the concerned authorities are jointly investigating the origin of the fertilizer, its intended destination, and whether a larger network is involved in the illegal trade. Officials have stated that stringent legal action will be taken against all those found responsible after the investigation is completed. Meanwhile, the Gariaband Police have appealed to the public to report any information regarding the illegal storage, black marketing, or unauthorized transportation of fertilizers, seeds, or other agricultural inputs. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential, police assured. The seizure has intensified scrutiny over illegal fertilizer trafficking in the border region. With the kharif cultivation season underway, authorities have indicated that surveillance and enforcement against the black marketing of agricultural inputs will be further strengthened to ensure that fertilizers meant for farmers reach their rightful beneficiaries.