Srinagar: Police, in coordination with officials from the Geology and Mining Department, seized nine vehicles and two JCB machines in separate actions against illegal mining in Baramulla, Ganderbal and Shopian districts.
In Baramulla, police seized two tractors involved in the unauthorized extraction of minerals from Dargam Nallah. The drivers were identified as Faisal Ahmad, son of Mohammad Shafi Khan of Bangdara, and Mehrajudin Mir, son of Ghulam Mohammad Mir of Wussan Khoi. The vehicles were seized and proceedings were initiated under the relevant provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act.
In Ganderbal, police seized two tippers involved in the illegal extraction and transportation of minerals within the jurisdiction of Police Station Gund. The vehicles were found transporting material illegally extracted from Nallah Sindh without the required permissions.
Meanwhile in Shopian, during routine patrolling, a police team from Police Post Turkwangam intercepted a JCB and two dumpers engaged in illegal mining without mandatory permissions. In this regard, FIR No. 23/2026 under relevant provisions of law was registered at Police Station Zainapora and investigation has been initiated.
In another similar action in the same area, police intercepted a JCB and three tippers involved in the unauthorized extraction of minerals. Accordingly, FIR No. 24/2026 was registered at Police Station Zainapora and further investigation is underway.
Police said they remain committed to protecting natural resources and will continue to take strict action against those involved in illegal mining and related activities. They also urged the public to cooperate by reporting such unlawful practices.