27 vehicles, including JCB, involved in illegal mining seized in Kashmir

In a major crackdown against illegal mining, unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals, and traffic violations, J&K Police intensified enforcement operations in Kulgam, Sopore, Baramulla, Awantipora and Anantnag districts. The coordinated operations resulted in the seizure of 26 vehicles and a JCB machine. Additionally, 13 heavy motor vehicles (HMVs), particularly tippers and dumpers, were challaned for various violations of the Motor Vehicles Act.

In Kulgam, Police registered three FIRs after intercepting four tractors at Vessu Crossing and Palpora Crossing, which were allegedly transporting illegally extracted riverbed material, including sand and boulders, without valid authorization and royalty documents. The action was taken by Police Station Qazigund and Police Post Mirbazar. FIR Nos. 274/2026, 275/2026 and 276/2026 were registered and investigations were taken up.

In separate enforcement actions, Police seized 10 vehicles, including heavy motor vehicles, motorcycles, a tractor and other two-wheelers, for various violations of the Motor Vehicles Act, including non-compliance with High Security Registration Plate (HSRP) requirements. Furthermore, 13 heavy motor vehicles, including tippers and dumpers, were challaned by Police Stations Devsar, Qaimoh and Qazigund for traffic violations.

In Sopore, Police, in coordination with the Geology and Mining Department, conducted joint enforcement operations at various locations across Police District Sopore and seized five vehicles allegedly involved in illegal extraction and transportation of minerals without valid permission.

In Baramulla, Police seized a tipper bearing registration number JK05B-4113 at Chakloo after it was found transporting extracted minerals without valid permission. Necessary legal proceedings under the relevant provisions of the Mines and Minerals (Development and Regulation) Act (MMDR Act) were initiated through the District Mineral Officer, Baramulla, Police said on Monday.

In Awantipora, Police seized a JCB machine at Sheikh-ul-Aalam, Tanchibagh, falling within the jurisdiction of Police Station Pampore, and apprehended its driver in connection with an alleged illegal mining activity. The accused was identified as Mohd Sakib Sheikh son of Mohd Asik Sheikh resident of Dusoo, Pulwama, presently residing at Doonnard, Pampore. Accordingly, FIR No. 102/2026 was registered at Police Station Pampore and further investigation was initiated, Police stated.

In another operation, Police Station Pampore seized two tipper vehicles bearing Registration Nos. JK01Q-0301 and JK01AT-2525 for their alleged involvement in illegal extraction and transportation of sand from River Jhelum at Bujibagh, Samboora. Subsequently, case FIR No. 104/2026 under relevant sections of law has been registered at Police Station Pampore.

Meanwhile, in Anantnag, Police intensified night-time checking and area domination operations against illegal mining. During the operation, a police party from Police Station Achabal seized four tractors allegedly involved in illegal mining at Telwani Achabal. Cognizance has been taken, and further legal action is being initiated in accordance with law.

J&K Police remains committed to protecting natural resources, safeguarding public property, upholding the rule of law and ensuring safer society.