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Aftab Maken
ISLAMABAD: Authorities have launched an investigation of State-run-Monopoly–PSO–into suspected manipulation of nearly 300,000 metric tonnes of petroleum stocks across multiple depots, with OGRA enforcement teams conducting nationwide inspections.
An investigation is underway into the suspected manipulation of nearly 300,000 metric tonnes (MT) of petroleum stocks through alleged irregular offtake and stock adjustments across six major fuel depots within a single week, officials familiar with the development said.
The depots under scrutiny include PSO Machike, GO Keamari, Attock Shikarpur, PSO Mehmood Kot, Rawalpindi, and other strategic storage facilities. Authorities are examining stock movements and adjustment records to determine whether established procedures were violated or inventory data was manipulated.
In response, the Oil and Gas Regulatory Authority (OGRA) has deployed enforcement teams to various regions to carry out inspections and verify stock positions. The regulator has also directed district administrations to strengthen monitoring of fuel supplies, field operations, and retail outlets to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
The investigation is aimed at establishing the extent of the suspected irregularities and identifying those responsible. Officials said enforcement efforts would continue across the country to safeguard fuel supply chains, enhance transparency in petroleum stock management, and prevent any disruption to the availability of petroleum products.
To counter hoarding and ensure uninterrupted fuel availability, OGRA has deployed enforcement teams across the country in coordination with district administrations to inspect storage facilities and monitor retail fuel stations.
Officials said the regulator has already inspected 1,922 petrol pumps under its nationwide enforcement campaign, while legal proceedings have been initiated against the companies suspected of violating the Oil Rules 2016.
The investigation comes as Pakistan faces mounting pressure on petroleum supplies due to multiple factors, including higher international oil prices triggered by escalating tensions between the United States and Iran, reduced inflows of smuggled fuel from western borders and delays in the arrival of three oil tankers carrying around 161,000 metric tons of petroleum products.
