TBM Report
In response to reports of artificial shortages and fuel hoarding triggered by the escalating conflict in the Middle East, the Bangladesh government has ordered the deployment of mobile courts nationwide. On Sunday, March 8, 2026, the Energy and Mineral Resources Division sent a formal request to the Cabinet Division, urging District Commissioners (DCs) to take stringent actions against dishonest traders involved in illegal stockpiling and fuel smuggling.
The crackdown has already begun in the capital, with executive magistrates leading raids on several petrol pumps in Tejgaon and Mohakhali. While some filling stations were found complying with government-mandated prices, several others were reported as “dry,” claiming they had run out of stock. Authorities are investigating whether these are genuine shortages or deliberate attempts to hoard fuel in anticipation of price hikes.
A key highlight of the operation occurred at the Shohag Filling Station in Mohakhali, where approximately 3,500 liters of octane were found in stock. After thorough measurements, officials ordered the station to resume sales immediately. The government’s directive explicitly prohibits selling fuel above fixed prices and mandates that filling stations clearly display price lists and press releases from the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC).
As global oil supplies remain volatile due to regional warfare, the Energy Division emphasized that these measures are essential to ensure an uninterrupted fuel supply in the domestic market. By empowering local administrations to conduct summary trials, the government aims to send a strong message to hoarders that exploiting the current geopolitical crisis for profit will result in severe legal consequences.
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