Awantipora, June 13, KNT: In a significant move against environmental violations, police in Awantipora have seized two mechanized motor boats used for the illegal extraction of sand from the River Jhelum. The operation was led by SHO Police Station Awantipora, DySP (Probationer) Aatif Zahoor, who acted on specific information about unlawful mining activities being carried out in the area.
According to police, the boats were being operated by a group of individuals from Banderpora village in Awantipora, who were found extracting and transporting sand without any legal permit or authorization. The accused have been identified as Rayees Ahmad Wani, son of Jalal-ud-Din Wani; Shakeel Ahmad Lone, son of Khazir Mohammad Lone; Manzoor Ahmad Wani, son of Mohammad Akbar Wani; Ajaz Ahmad Lone, son of Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din; Mushtaq Ahmad Dar, son of Ghulam Mohammad Dar; and Ghulam Mohi-ud-Din Wani, son of Ibli Wani.
A formal case under FIR No. 133/2025 has been registered at Police Station Awantipora under relevant sections of law, and further investigation has been initiated. The seized boats have been taken into custody as evidence.
The police action is part of an ongoing campaign to curb illegal mining and protect the region’s fragile river ecosystems. Officials said such activities not only damage aquatic habitats but also lead to riverbank erosion and compromise the structural safety of nearby settlements.
A senior police officer told KNT that strict legal action will continue against those involved in illegal sand extraction and transport. “This kind of environmental vandalism cannot be tolerated. We are committed to holding the violators accountable,” he said.
Awantipora Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any instances of illegal mining, assuring that swift and stern action will follow against offenders. [KNT]
