Illegal Mining: Police seize 12 vehicles in southern districts

Srinagar, April 11: Continuing its sustained drive against illegal mining, Police on Saturday said to have seized four tractors, two tippers and two JCBs involved in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals across different areas of the district Shopian.

Besides, a dumper was also seized in Pulwama, loaded with illegally extracted sand. Moreover, 3 tractors were also seized in Anantnag, a police spokesman said in a statement issued here.

During routine patrolling, a police party from Police Post Wachi intercepted a tractor engaged in illegal mining activities without the required permissions.

In this connection, police said that a case under FIR number 50/2026 under relevant provisions of law has been registered at Police Station Zainapora and further investigation has been initiated.

Similarly, a police party from Police Station Shopian conducted a raid at Rambiara Nallah near Aglar Fruit Mandi, where two tippers and two JCBs were found involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals without valid authorization. Accordingly, police said that a case under FIR number 50/2026 has been registered at Police Station Shopian, and investigation is underway.

In a separate action based on specific information, a police team from Police Station Zainapora established a naka at Shrimal Link Road and intercepted three tractors engaged in illegal mineral extraction and transportation without royalty documents.

In this regard, the statement reads that a case under FIR number 51/2026 has been registered at Police Station Zainapora and further investigation has been initiated.

Meanwhile, Police in Anantnag seized three tractors involved in unlawful extraction in the jurisdiction of Police Station Kokernag. During three separate incidents, police teams acted swiftly to curb illegal mining operations and seized the vehicles on the spot. In this regard, FIR Nos. 20/2026, 21/2026, and 22/2026 have been registered, and further investigation is underway.

Meanwhile, Police reiterated its firm commitment to safeguarding the district’s natural resources and ensuring strict legal action against individuals involved in illegal mining. “The general public is urged to cooperate by reporting any such unlawful activities. The identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential, and strict action will be taken against violators.”

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