Karachi: Pakistan State Oil (PSO), in close coordination with law enforcement agencies (LEAs), successfully foiled a major oil theft attempt during a late-night operation on the Sihala–Attock Refinery Limited (ARL) pipeline, dismantling an organised fuel theft syndicate operating along Kahuta Road.
According to a statement issued by PSO, the operation was launched after the company detected a sudden pressure drop in the pipeline at 11:45 pm on July 15, 2026. Acting on prior intelligence and continuous surveillance of a suspected location, PSO immediately alerted law enforcement authorities.
A joint security team swiftly responded and, at approximately 2:15 am on July 16, caught the suspects red-handed while they were illegally extracting petroleum products from the pipeline.
During the operation, authorities seized two vehicles (Shahzore and Hyundai trucks) allegedly used in the theft, along with approximately 800 litres of High-Speed Diesel (HSD) loaded in the vehicles. An additional 1,000 litres of HSD was recovered from storage tanks, while at least 200 litres of HSD stored in drums and 20- and 50-litre containers was also confiscated. Equipment used for illegally tapping the pipeline was recovered from the site.
The arrested suspects, along with the seized vehicles, recovered fuel and other equipment, were handed over to Sihala Police for further investigation and legal proceedings.
PSO said the successful operation highlights its zero-tolerance policy towards fuel theft and reflects its commitment to safeguarding Pakistan’s critical energy infrastructure. The company credited the success of the operation to real-time pipeline monitoring, actionable intelligence, and the timely support of law enforcement agencies.
