The Bombay High Court rejected the anticipatory bail applications of accused persons charged in a case involving the import and diversion of petroleum products adulterated as diesel fuel. The case arises from Crime No. 346 of 2024 registered at Uran Police Station, Raigad District, under several sections including those of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita 2023 and the Essential Commodities Act.
The prosecution alleges that the accused orchestrated a scheme involving three companies Sole Bloom Pvt. Ltd., Siddhidhata Trading Company, and Naksh Trading Company that were purportedly separate but controlled through a single email ID linked to accused No.2. The layering of transactions was intended to camouflage the diversion of imported petroleum products and sale of adulterated fuel. Laboratory tests confirmed adulteration in two tankers.
The Court pointed out that the serious nature of the economic offences, the prima facie material on record, and the ongoing crucial stage of the investigation necessitate custodial interrogation to uncover the larger conspiracy and identify ultimate beneficiaries. The Court dismissed the accused’s contention that technical issues with the lab report or the authority of officers should bar prosecution, noting these are matters for trial.
Rejecting anticipatory bail, the Court emphasized that economic offences involving public safety and state revenue require stringent investigation and protection from custodial interference at preliminary stages may frustrate justice.
Appearances
Applicants- Mr. P.A. Pol with Mr. Sharad Suryawanshi and Mr. Ranjit Hatkar i/by Pol Legal Juris.
Respondent- Mrs. Mahalakshmi Ganapathy, APP
