Budgam Police arrest 12 in illegal mining crackdown, 39 vehicles seized

Srinagar, Dec 03: Police in Budgam, in coordination with the Mining Department, intensified action against illegal mining and unauthorized transportation of minerals across the district during November 2025, leading to arrests, vehicle seizures and financial penalties.

Officials said police teams from various police stations and police posts, under the supervision of senior officers, conducted sustained operations in multiple areas of the district including Khansahib, Suranhall Batpora, Beerwah, Narbal, Magam, Hardupanzo, Budgam, Charar-i-Shareif, Waterhail and Chadoora.

During the operations, police arrested twelve individuals on the spot for their involvement in illegal extraction and movement of minerals. In addition, six FIRs were registered against persons engaged in unlawful mining activity, officials said.

A total of thirty-nine vehicles were seized in connection with these violations. The seized machinery included eleven tippers and dumpers, twenty-one tractors, six JCB machines and one L&T machine, according to official figures released by the authorities.

Police said heavy fines were also imposed on the violators as part of enforcement measures to discourage repeat offences and ensure compliance with mining regulations.

Officials reiterated that illegal mining not only causes significant environmental damage but also leads to loss of government revenue and endangers public safety. They said strict action will continue against anyone found violating laws related to mineral extraction and transportation.

The police have urged people to report instances of illegal mining or suspicious movement of mineral-laden vehicles, assuring that swift action will be taken on credible information. [KNT]