Fake engine oil racket busted in Rourkela; police probe intensifies

A shocking case of counterfeit engine oil production and distribution has come to light in the Bisra police station area of Rourkela. As per the allegations, the fraudsters have been illegally manufacturing and selling low-quality engine oil under the branding of reputed companies, deceiving unsuspecting customers for years.

The fraudulent operation involved repackaging substandard engine oil in bottles labeled with the names and logos of well-known brands. At first glance, these fake products appeared identical to genuine ones, making it nearly impossible for customers to differentiate them from the original. Even after purchasing and using the product, many buyers remained unaware that they had been duped.

This illegal trade had been running for years, with thousands of litres of counterfeit engine oil being supplied to markets. The operation involved repackaging different quantities, ranging from one-litre bottles to larger ten-litre containers, all falsely labelled as premium-quality engine oil.

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Serious Risks to Vehicles and Consumers:

Experts warn that using such low-grade, adulterated engine oil can have devastating effects on vehicles. Engine oil plays a crucial role in maintaining the health of an engine by reducing friction, cooling components, and ensuring smooth performance. However, the use of poor-quality or adulterated oil can lead to severe engine damage, reduced fuel efficiency, increased maintenance costs, and complete engine failure in extreme cases

Vehicle owners, especially those with motorcycles, cars, and commercial vehicles, are at serious risk if they unknowingly use these fake products. The long-term financial loss due to engine breakdowns could be substantial.

Police Raid and Investigation Underway:

Acting on intelligence, police conducted a raid at the site where this illegal operation was taking place. Investigators are now examining the supply chain to track down those responsible for manufacturing and distributing the counterfeit engine oil. Authorities are also working to identify the retail outlets and distributors involved in selling these fake products.

Police have urged consumers to be cautious while purchasing engine oil and to buy only from authorized dealers or verified sources. They have also requested people to report any suspicious activities related to counterfeit goods.

Consumer Awareness and Legal Actions:

As the investigation unfolds, law enforcement agencies are expected to take strict legal action against the perpetrators under consumer protection and fraud laws. Counterfeit products not only deceive customers but also violate multiple legal and safety regulations, putting public safety at risk. Authorities have advised vehicle owners to carefully inspect the packaging, verify product authenticity, and check for official seals before purchasing engine oil.

This incident highlights the importance of consumer awareness in preventing such fraudulent activities from affecting unsuspecting buyers. The case is still under investigation, and more details are expected to emerge as police continue their crackdown on the racket.