OGDC busts crude theft network and illegal refinery in Sindh

OGDC says it has broken up a large crude oil theft operation in Sindh and helped seize an illegal refinery that was processing stolen petroleum for sale in the local market.

The company said the theft involved unauthorized tapping of the Kunnar Pasakhi Deep to Tando Allahyar pipeline near Tando Jam. Investigators traced the stolen crude to an illicit refining setup in the Siri area of New Hyderabad City.

After a coordinated probe with law enforcement and intelligence support, officials carried out a joint raid that recovered refining machinery, stolen crude oil, and vehicles allegedly used in the operation. A criminal case has been registered against the suspected gang leader and several associates.

OGDC has urged authorities to pursue strict legal action, including anti-terror provisions, arguing that the network posed a serious threat to national energy infrastructure and caused significant economic losses.