FIA Arrests 2 for Stealing 20,000 Liters of Diesel Daily From PSO Pipeline

The Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), in collaboration with Pakistan State Oil (PSO), has dismantled a major diesel theft network operating near Sihala and arrested two suspects caught in the act.

According to an FIA spokesperson, the raid was carried out near Jump Stop in Bhaga Sihala following a tip-off. Investigators said the suspects had installed an illegal underground pipeline connected to the PSO-ARL Sihala main pipeline to siphon diesel.

The stolen fuel was reportedly transferred into drums and sold on the black market. The FIA said the network had been operating for the past five to six months, stealing an estimated 20,000 liters of diesel every day.

PSO initially estimated the losses at more than Rs. 100 million, but based on the reported daily theft, the actual financial impact may be significantly higher. Authorities have not explained how the estimate was calculated.

During the operation, officials seized the illegal pipeline and two Shehzore pickup trucks loaded with oil-filled drums and tanks. The FIA has registered a case against the arrested suspects and said the investigation will determine whether additional individuals, including any government officials, were involved in the operation. Further investigation is underway.