B Mirror Report: Serious allegations of irregularities, corruption and administrative complications have long surrounded state-owned fuel supplier Jamuna Oil Company Limited, a key entity in the country’s energy supply chain that directly impacts the national economy, transport sector and industrial production.

In recent times, fresh controversy has emerged over issues including excess fuel distribution beyond allocation orders, negligence of duty, violation of directives and questionable administrative decisions. Analysis of multiple official documents, office orders and related sources indicates that a series of administrative actions have raised concerns over internal discipline and accountability within the organization.

According to sources, allegations of irregularities in allocation management and non-compliance with administrative instructions have been linked to Deputy General Manager (DLO—acting) Syed Shafiqul Rahman. Irregularities in fuel allocation and supply have reportedly persisted for a long time across depots in Mongla, Fatullah, Gulshan and other filling stations. Allegations also include disappearance of fuel from pipelines, unauthorized modification of tanker capacity for excess transfer, and illegal stockpiling. Several officials and employees are also suspected of direct or indirect involvement, according to multiple sources.

One major incident surfaced on March 29 at the Mongla Oil Installation, where a departmental letter signed by General Manager (HR) Md. Masudul Islam alleged serious misconduct by the depot head, leading to his suspension. The letter stated that he was absent from duty without authorization, violating multiple service rules.

On the same night, a joint team reportedly measured diesel stock in three tanks at the Mongla installation and found an excess of 12,613 litres compared to the official stock register. The value of the excess fuel was estimated at around Tk 12.1 lakh, which authorities considered a serious irregularity.

Law enforcement sources said a joint team involving the district administration, Navy, Coast Guard and police conducted an inspection at the Mongla Oil Installation in Bagerhat. During the operation, officials verified stock registers and physically measured fuel quantities using measuring tapes, confirming the discrepancy.

Official documents further state that the responsible official was absent during the inspection and failed to perform assigned duties. A show-cause notice was issued, and he was temporarily suspended with attachment to the HR division at the headquarters.

On April 5, another major administrative decision removed Syed Shafiqul Rahman from his duties following a joint report by the Narayanganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) and a Minerals Development Bureau director. The report alleged non-compliance with fuel allocation procedures and violation of administrative instructions.

However, sources claim that initial orders only relieved him from duties instead of suspension, which later sparked discussions within administrative circles. A revised order was subsequently issued following intervention from the Bangladesh Petroleum Corporation (BPC) and the ministry, placing him under suspension.

A further incident on April 7 added to the controversy when an inspection team found irregularities in fuel distribution at depots in Narayanganj. Officials detected excess diesel and octane supplied to several filling stations without written approval, with instructions reportedly given through mobile calls or WhatsApp messages.

The inspection report also noted procedural violations in allocation documents, where signatures were found only on the last page instead of each page as required. Authorities said such practices raise serious concerns over transparency and accountability.

Following these findings, show-cause notices were issued and suspension orders were enforced against the concerned officials. In a separate development, Mongla depot in-charge Al Amin Khan was also suspended over allegations of illegal stockpiling.

The series of actions has renewed debate over internal control mechanisms within the organization. Some sources allege that irregularities in fuel management have continued over time with the involvement of senior officials.

Attempts to contact Managing Director (acting) Engineer Md. Amir Masud were unsuccessful as he did not respond to repeated calls.

Energy sector analysts caution that a lack of transparency and accountability in allocation processes within state-owned entities could pose long-term risks to the national economy. They warn that discrepancies between allocated and actual fuel stock may lead to misuse of state resources and instability in fuel supply management.