CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Police on Saturday launched a major operation against illegal mining in Mohali district, arresting 15 people and seizing heavy machinery and vehicles used in the activity.
The operation was carried out through simultaneous raids in sensitive areas of the district on the intervening night of December 26 and 27. SSP Mohali Harmandeep Singh Hans said the raids were conducted in areas under the Sohana, Majri and Dera Bassi police stations.
As part of the crackdown, the police registered a total of 20 FIRs. Fifteen accused were arrested from the spot during the operation.
Police teams seized one earth-moving machine (JCB), 14 loaded tippers and two tractor-trolleys allegedly used for illegal mining. The material recovered from the dumping sites has been assessed by the Department of Geology and Mining for further legal action.
In addition, suspected crusher owners are under investigation and notices have been issued to them.
The SSP said the police were following a zero-tolerance policy against illegal mining. He added that those exploiting natural resources would not be spared and such operations would continue in the future to ensure strict compliance with the law.
