An organized network involved in stealing iron rods from transport shipments was discovered in Surat by the city’s Special Operation Group (SOG). The SOG seized goods and vehicles worth over Rs 71.52 lakh and apprehended four individuals in the Dindoli area. Acting on specific intelligence, the SOG officers raided near Bhagyalakshmi Society, recovering nearly 59,910 kilograms of TMT iron rods.
The police revealed that the accused were diverting materials from consignments carried by trucks and trailers, selling them at discounted prices to builders and traders. The arrested individuals were identified as Bheraram Jakhad, Nimbaram Jakhad, Pradeep Tripathi, and Pradeep Sharma. They were caught at the scene along with the vehicles used in the operation. Police seized iron rods valued at Rs 32.95 lakh, a trailer worth Rs 33 lakh, and a car valued at Rs five lakh. Additionally, four mobile phones and cash were recovered during the operation.
Deputy Commissioner of Police (DCP) Rajdipsinh Nakum stated that the case indicated a “well-planned conspiracy” involving tampering with consignments during transit. The accused would remove materials from trucks and trailers, later selling them at lower prices to builders or traders. Authorities suspect the involvement of others within the transport network and are searching for two alleged masterminds, Jitu and Rajan Tiwari, who are currently on the run. A case has been filed at Dindoli police station under specific sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.
