Illegal Extraction and Transportation of Minerals: Three Vehicles Seized, Three Arrested in Kulgam

Danishwar Hameed 

Kulgam, July 30:In a major step against illegal mining activities, Kulgam Police has seized three vehicles and arrested three individuals for their involvement in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals.

Acting on credible inputs, a team led by the In-Charge Police Post (IC PP) Mirbazar conducted a naka (checkpoint) at Khrewan. During the operation, two vehicles—a JCB and a dumper—were intercepted and seized. The drivers were apprehended on the spot for operating without proper documentation and engaging in illegal mineral transportation.

In a separate but related operation, the same police unit established another checkpoint at Nowpora, where one more vehicle—a tractor—was caught transporting minerals illicitly. The individual operating the tractor was also arrested.

FIRs under numbers 153/2025 and 154/2025 have been registered at Police Station Qazigund. The police have invoked relevant legal provisions, and further investigation is ongoing to trace broader networks potentially involved in the illegal trade.

Authorities have reiterated their commitment to curbing environmental crimes and urged the public to report any instances of illegal mineral extraction or transportation. Community vigilance, they emphasized, is vital for protecting natural resources and ensuring lawful activity.