Continuing its sustained drive against illegal mining activities, Police in Awantipora have seized two vehicles, including a JCB machine, and arrested two persons involved in the unauthorized extraction and transportation of minerals in the area.

According to officials, a police team from Police Post Reshipora, led by Incharge Sub-Inspector Muneer Ahmad, intercepted two vehicles during a special naka operation. The seized vehicles include one tipper bearing registration number JK13D-8100 and a JCB without a registration plate, both found engaged in illegal excavation and transportation of minerals.
The drivers of the seized vehicles were identified as Arshid Ahmad Bhat, son of Abdul Rehman Bhat, a resident of Renzipora, and Mysar Yousuf Bandh, son of Mohammad Yousuf Bandh, a resident of Kachkoot. Both were taken into custody on the spot.
Police said a case under FIR No. 221/2025 has been registered at Police Station Awantipora under relevant sections of law, and further investigation is underway to identify other individuals and contractors possibly involved in the illegal mineral trade.
An official spokesperson said that Awantipora Police have intensified their efforts to curb illegal mining, which not only causes environmental degradation but also results in significant revenue loss to the government. “The police are committed to taking strict action against all those indulging in unlawful extraction and transportation of minerals,” the spokesperson said.
Police have urged locals to cooperate and report any such activities in their areas. “Community members are requested to come forward with any information regarding illegal mineral-related activities in their neighbourhood. Strict action will be taken against violators,” officials added.