In a decisive move against illegal mining activities, the Pathankot police, in a joint drive with the Mining Department, undertook a coordinated operation in Maira Village and held two. The operation was initiated in response to credible information and video evidence provided, highlighting an unlawful mining operation near the river bed.
The primary accused, identified as Baldev Kumar (Crusher’s owner), son of Milkhi Ram, a resident of Shah Colony, Pathankot, who was promptly apprehended. Additionally, the Poclain machine driver, Vinod, son of Narain Das, hailing from Kataruchak, has also been taken into custody.
Divulging more details to the media, the Senior Superintendent of Police, Harkamal Preet Singh Khakh said that upon receiving the tip-off, the dedicated police team led by SHO Taragarh Navdeep Sharma under the supervision of DSP Rural Sukhjinder Singh swiftly moved to the location, immediately alerting the Mining department to join the operation. Upon arrival, the police observed the drivers of the poclain machine and tipper making a hasty retreat towards the crusher, where they parked their vehicles.
Subsequently, the Mining department's team conducted a meticulous examination, corroborating the on-site evidence with a video recording that unequivocally demonstrated fresh and unlawful excavation.
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Based on the comprehensive report submitted by the Mining Department, a First Information Report (FIR) under section 55 and of 21(1) Mines and Minerals Act, and section 379 of the Indian Penal Code (IPC), has been officially registered at police station Taragarh against the owner of the crusher and the driver. The police team has seized one heavy truck bearing no. РB03N-9262 and one Chain Excavator, Model-R215 LC-7, Serial No- N603D00267.
The arrested accused would be produced in the local court and their remand would be sought for further investigation of the matter.
This decisive action by Pathankot Police Department reinforces our commitment to upholding the rule of law and preserving our natural resources. The department will continue to be vigilant in preventing such illicit activities, and perpetrators will be held accountable, said SSP Khakh.