SRINAGAR: Jammu and Kashmir Police have seized ten vehicles involved in illegal mining activities across Shopian, Awantipora and Pulwama districts as part of an intensified drive against unauthorised extraction and transportation of minerals.
Officials said five vehicles were seized in Shopian during a routine patrol by a police team from Police Station Imamsahib. The vehicles, comprising one JCB and four tractors, were found extracting minerals without valid royalty documents. Two separate cases, FIR No. 42 of 2025 and FIR No. 43 of 2025, have been registered at Police Station Imamsahib under relevant sections of law, and investigations have been taken up.
In Awantipora, police seized two tippers bearing registration numbers JK04B 0511 and JK09B 3344 from the Khrew area. The vehicles were allegedly being used for illegal excavation and transportation of minerals. A case, FIR No. 98 of 2025, has been registered at Police Station Khrew, and further investigation is underway.
Meanwhile, in Pulwama district, police intensified night patrols across identified vulnerable locations to curb unlawful mining. During the intervening night of December 18 and 19, a team from Police Station Litter intercepted and seized two dumpers and one tractor at Udipora. The vehicles were linked to illegal mining activities, officials said. FIR No. 111 of 2025 has been registered in the matter.
Police said the operation reflects their continued focus on protecting natural resources and enforcing mining regulations. Authorities have urged the public to report illegal mining activities, assuring that the identity of informants will remain confidential and that strict legal action will be taken against violators.
