Pulwama, Nov 28,: Pulwama Police on Friday launched a major operation against illegal mining activities in the district and seized a large number of heavy machines and vehicles from two locations SIDCO Lassipora and Gund Achan Panjran.
Police officials said special teams conducted targeted late night checking based on credible inputs about unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals in the area. During the operation, the teams intercepted and seized two LNT machines, five JCB machines, nine dumpers and two tippers, all of which were found to be involved in illegal mining operations.
According to officials, the machinery and vehicles were being used during late night hours to extract minerals without permission and transport them to unknown destinations, causing environmental damage and loss to the public exchequer. The seizures were made from two separate sites where illegal mining was reportedly going on for some time.
Taking cognisance of the violations, Pulwama Police registered FIR No. 99/2025 and FIR No. 100/2025 under Section 303(2) of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita and Section 3 of the Prevention of Damage to Public Property Act. Officials said investigation has been set into motion to identify the owners of the machinery and vehicles and to trace the entire network involved in the illegal trade.
Police said further action under relevant mining and environmental laws may also be initiated as the probe progresses. The seized vehicles have been taken into custody and further seizures are likely as the investigation unfolds.
An official spokesperson said Pulwama Police has adopted a zero tolerance policy against illegal mining and assured strict legal action against all those found involved in damaging natural resources. [KNT]
