SRINAGAR: Police in north Kashmir’s Baramulla district have seized 12 vehicles involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals. The enforcement action took place in the Kunzer area, leading to the registration of a case to investigate a wider illegal mining network.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that acting on specific intelligence, a police team from Police Station Kunzer conducted a raid on a site where illegal mining was reportedly underway. During this operation, five tipper trucks loaded with illegally extracted clay and a JCB excavator, allegedly used for the excavation and transport of the material, were impounded.
In a separate operation, while on routine patrol at Hardbani, Kunzer, another police team intercepted six tractors. These vehicles were reportedly transporting boulders that had been illegally extracted from the Ferozpora Nallah. Four drivers were apprehended at the scene, while two individuals fled, abandoning their tractors.
Authorities stated that none of the drivers could produce valid permits or authorizations for the extraction or transportation of the seized minerals. During preliminary questioning, the apprehended individuals are reported to have admitted to the illegal extraction of boulders from the Ferozpora Nallah.
Across both operations, police confiscated a total of 12 vehicles, comprising five tippers, one JCB excavator, and six tractors. The illegally extracted minerals were also seized.
A case has been registered at Police Station Kunzer under FIR No. 91/2026, invoking relevant provisions of law. An investigation has been initiated to identify all individuals connected to the alleged illegal mining network and to ascertain its full scope.
The police department has stated that this crackdown underscores its commitment to safeguarding natural resources and preserving the ecological balance of the district. The authorities have indicated that stringent legal action will continue against those found involved in illegal mining and the unauthorised transportation of minerals. The public has been encouraged to report any instances of illegal extraction or transportation of natural resources to the authorities.
The Chenab Times News Desk