In a major crackdown against illegal sand mining, Director General of Police (DGP), Odisha, Yogesh Bahadur Khurania has issued strict directives to take firm action against the sand mafia operating in various parts of the state. Acting on these orders, police teams across all districts launched a massive raid operation in the past couple of days.
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State-wide Raids and Seizures
The Odisha Police force has intensified its anti-mining operations, targeting unauthorized sand extraction sites. Throughout Sunday, independent police teams conducted simultaneous raids in multiple districts, leading to the seizure of 136 vehicles, including tractors, trucks, tippers, and highways that were being used for illegal sand transportation.
Legal Actions and Arrests
Along with the vehicle seizures, the police have registered 119 cases related to illegal sand mining activities. A total of 123 individuals involved in unlawful extraction and transportation of sand have been arrested during the operation. The authorities have assured that this crackdown will continue in the coming days to curb the activities of the sand mafia.
Public Cooperation and Future Plans
Police officials have urged local residents to report any unauthorized sand or morrum (laterite soil) mining activities in their respective areas. The department has emphasized that public cooperation will play a crucial role in eliminating the rampant illegal trade.
The Odisha Police remain committed to putting an end to illegal sand transportation and will continue its aggressive monitoring to ensure strict enforcement of environmental laws and protect the state's natural resources, said the DGP.