Patna administration seizes 4 trucks, slaps Rs 36 lakh fine on sand mafia
Patna, Dec 13 – Following the instructions of District Magistrate Thiyagarajan S.M., authorities launched a joint operation by the Mining Department and police to clamp down on illegal sand mining and transport near the Mahabalipur Canal, according to a statement released on Saturday around 12:30 a.m.
During the raid, investigators seized four trucks that were operating illegally – extracting sand from the Son River close to the canal. All vehicles were taken into custody and First Information Reports were filed against the owners at Paliganj police station.
Under the Bihar Mineral Concession, Prevention of Illegal Mining, Transportation and Storage Rules, 2019 (as amended in 2024), a total fine of ₹36 lakh was levied on the four trucks.
The Magistrate said tougher measures will be taken under the Crime Control Act against those involved in illicit mining. He also added that the district is rolling out regular enforcement drives to curb the illegal sand trade.
Officials were instructed to strictly follow state guidelines and maintain close coordination across departments. The Magistrate urged continuous, intensive raids to target illegal mining, transport and storage.
He highlighted the need for periodic special operations and the use of modern technology—drones and high‑speed boats—to choke off new illegal mining activities. “Those involved in illegal sand mining are to be identified and faced with stringent legal action,” he affirmed.
The Magistrate also directed a bolstered intelligence‑gathering effort for illegal mining, transport and storage, ensuring swift, decisive action on any leads.
He reiterated that strict legal measures—including under the CCA—will be applied against sand mafia, land mafia, liquor mafia, organized gangs linked to prohibition offences, and individuals engaged in other illicit economic crimes, underscoring the district administration’s zero‑tolerance stance.
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