Pakistan State Oil (PSO), in close coordination with law enforcement agencies, last week successfully intercepted an organized oil theft syndicate operating on the Sihala–ARL pipeline.
Triggered at 2345 hours on the night between July 15 and July 16, the operation followed the detection of a sudden pressure drop in the pipeline. Acting on prior intelligence and continuous surveillance of a suspected location on Kahuta Road, PSO immediately alerted law enforcers.
In a swift joint response, security teams moved in and at approximately 0215 hours apprehended the suspects red-handed while they were illegally extracting petroleum product from the pipeline.
According to an official statement, the officials seized two vehicles used in the theft; 800 liters of high-speed diesel loaded in vehicles; 1,000 liters of diesel from storage tanks; 200 liters of diesel found in drums and 20/50-liter cans; and associated equipment used for illegal tapping.
All suspects, along with the seized vehicles, recovered product, and equipment, have been handed over to Sihala Police for further investigation and legal proceedings.
In a statement, PSO said the operation underscores its zero-tolerance policy toward fuel theft and its commitment to protecting national energy infrastructure. The successful interdiction was made possible through real-time monitoring, actionable intelligence, and the prompt action of law enforcers.
PSO said it remains dedicated to safeguarding the country’s energy supply chain and would continue to work closely with law enforcement to dismantle criminal networks targeting critical infrastructure.