Vasai: The Pelhar police have registered an FIR against six staff members of a CNG pump located in Dhanivbaug, Nalasopara (E), for allegedly assaulting a govt officer and overcharging customers. The case has been filed under sections related to assault, causing grievous hurt to a public servant on duty, along with provisions of the Essential Commodities Act and the Petroleum Act.The complainant, Bhagwat Sonar, a Food Supply Inspection Officer from Vasai, had conducted a raid at the pump on Saturday afternoon following multiple complaints of overcharging. During the inspection on Saturday afternoon, Sonar allegedly found that customers were being charged Rs 30 to Rs 50 extra per refill despite fixed government rates.According to the FIR, the situation escalated when Sonar questioned the staff about the malpractice. The staff allegedly behaved aggressively, argued with the officer, and disobeyed his instructions. In a video recorded by Sonar, the employees can be seen confronting him in a hostile manner. He further alleged that his movement was restricted and that he was physically assaulted during the incident.One of the staff members also reportedly helped a colleague escape from the spot, who was allegedly involved in collecting the excess cash from customers. Following the incident, Sonar alerted the Pelhar police, who reached the location and intervened.Sonar said the raid was conducted after receiving several complaints. He added that the staff appeared to be taking advantage of rumours about a possible shortage of CNG supply to overcharge customers. They also feel that this overcharging may have been going on for some time. He also confirmed that the action taken report will be shared with the state govt with a proposal to cancel the licence of this pump.Police officials confirmed that further investigation is underway to determine the extent of the malpractice and whether more individuals were involved in the racket.
