LPG shortage: police caution against spreading rumours

The police in Annamayya district warned on Thursday of strict legal action against individuals spreading rumors about the shortage of LPG cylinders and price hikes on social media platforms, taking advantage of the Middle Eastern conflict.

The warning followed misleading posts on social media that claimed LPG cylinders were becoming scarce and that prices had sharply increased due to international developments.

Speaking to the media here, Superintendent of Police (SP) Dheeraj Kunubilli said that the supply of LPG cylinders across the district was normal and there was no cause for public concern. People were urged not to panic or believe unverified messages circulating on social media. He said that those creating or forwarding false information about LPG availability would be identified and subjected to strict legal action. Anyone found spreading rumours or attempting to create panic among the public would face consequences under the law.

The SP said that special surveillance had been placed on traders or middlemen attempting to create an artificial shortage and sell cylinders at inflated prices. “Such illegal practices would invite immediate legal action,” he said, adding that the public should report any instances of overpricing or misinformation by approaching the nearest police station or dialling the emergency helpline 112.