Srinagar: Continuing its drive against illegal mining across Kashmir, Jammu and Kashmir Police on Tuesday seized seven vehicles involved in the unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals in Ganderbal and Shopian districts.
In Ganderbal, police seized three vehicles, including two tippers and one tractor, for their alleged involvement in the illegal extraction and transportation of minor minerals within the jurisdiction of Police Station Safapora and Police Station Kangan.
Officials said the vehicles were found transporting illegally extracted material from Nallah Sindh without the mandatory permissions. Acting promptly and in coordination with the Geology and Mining Department, police teams from the concerned stations intercepted and seized the vehicles on the spot.
Police said the action is part of ongoing efforts to tighten the clampdown on illegal mineral extraction and transportation in the district. Authorities noted that such activities not only cause significant loss to the public exchequer but also pose a serious threat to the ecological balance of the region.
Meanwhile, in Shopian district, police seized four tractors involved in unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals in the Berthipora and Takwan areas.
During routine patrolling, a police team from Police Post Berthipora intercepted two tractors engaged in illegal mining activities without the required permissions. Following the seizure, FIR No. 09/2026 under relevant provisions of law was registered at Police Station Keller, and an investigation has been initiated.
In a similar action, police from Police Station Keller seized two additional tractors allegedly involved in the illegal transportation of minerals. Accordingly, FIR No. 10/2026 has been registered and further investigation is underway.
Police reiterated their commitment to safeguarding natural resources and curbing illegal mining activities in the region. Offenders have been warned to desist from unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals, with authorities stating that stringent legal action will continue against violators.
The public has also been urged to cooperate with the police by reporting illegal mining activities. Authorities assured that the identity of informants will be kept strictly confidential while action will be taken against those found involved in such practices.
