Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. The Jakarta Metro Jaya Regional Police uncovered a massive illegal gas siphoning operation on Thursday (16/4/2026), seizing 1,259 canisters across Jakarta, Bekasi, and Tangerang. 

Authorities arrested 10 suspects who allegedly transferred subsidized 3 kg LPG gas into 12 kg and 5 kg non-subsidized cylinders to reap enormous profits. Using modified regulator pipes and ice to facilitate the transfer, the syndicate reportedly operated for a year, amassing approximately Rp2.7 billion in illegal revenue by exploiting price disparities.

"The suspects manipulated subsidized stocks to sell at premium rates, earning up to Rp 510,000 in illicit profit per 50 kg cylinder," said Senior Superintendent Vicktor D. Mackbon, the Director of Special Crimes at the Metro Jaya Police, as cited by antaranews.com

Investigators confiscated 954 subsidized canisters and hundreds of high-capacity tanks during raids at six locations. The suspects now face up to six years in prison and fines of Rp 60 billion under the Job Creation Law and the Oil and Gas Law. 

(mg/inp/pr/rs)