Bhandara: A suspected counterfeit Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) racket has come to light in the Khapa area of Bhandara district, where products allegedly carrying the names of reputed brands such as Tata Motors and Gulf were reportedly being sold.
The action was carried out jointly by the police and officials associated with EIPR India Private Limited following information received regarding the alleged sale of counterfeit DEF products. During the inspection, suspected fake products worth approximately ₹76,900 were seized from two shops in Khapa.
According to the information available, Parshuram Sukhdev Karande, manager and complainant associated with EIPR India Private Limited, provided information that led authorities to investigate the suspected misuse of well-known brand names.
Suspected Counterfeit Products Found at Two Shops
Following the information, the authorities inspected two separate establishments in Khapa. During the operation, several DEF containers bearing labels associated with Tata Motors and Gulf were reportedly found.
Officials examined the packaging and other identifying features of the products. Several discrepancies were allegedly noticed in the printing quality, colour combinations, MRP details, holograms and monograms appearing on the containers.
The suspected products were subsequently taken into custody as part of the investigation.
Holograms and Brand Markings Under Scrutiny
One of the significant aspects of the inspection was the verification of holograms and monograms present on the DEF containers. These markings were reportedly checked using scanning equipment.
According to the officials involved in the inspection, the information associated with the markings did not correspond with the records or systems of the respective original brands. This has raised suspicion that the brand identities may have been misused to market and sell counterfeit products.
Goods Worth ₹76,900 Seized
The authorities seized suspected counterfeit DEF products with an estimated total value of ₹76,900 during the joint operation.
The investigation is now focused on determining where the suspected counterfeit products originated from and whether other individuals, suppliers or a larger distribution network are involved in the alleged activity.
The authorities are also examining whether the products were being distributed to vehicle owners or commercial establishments in other areas.
Quality and Consumer Safety Concerns
The alleged sale of counterfeit DEF has also raised concerns over product quality. DEF is used in modern diesel vehicles equipped with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) systems, making the quality and specifications of the fluid important for the proper functioning of the emission-control system.
Authorities are continuing their investigation to establish the authenticity of the seized products and determine responsibility for their alleged manufacture, distribution and sale.
Further details are expected to emerge as the investigation progresses.