Kaup: Police have detected a case of illegal sand extraction and storage from the Papanashini river at Pangal Mattu and seized the stockpiled sand from the riverbank during a recent operation.
According to the police, sub-inspector Shubhakara, who was on rounds duty on June 23, received credible information about illegal sand being extracted and stored along the riverbank in the area.
Acting on the tip-off, the officer and his team rushed to the spot and conducted an inspection.
Sand stockpile seized from riverbank
During the operation, police found approximately three units of sand illegally piled up and stored on the bank of the Papanashini river.
The stockpiled sand was seized in accordance with legal procedures. Police also recovered several items believed to have been used in the extraction process, including fibre baskets and spades.
Officials suspect that the equipment was used to extract sand from the river and transport it to the storage location before it could be moved elsewhere.
Search for boats yields no results
Following the seizure, police conducted a search in the surrounding area to trace the boats allegedly used for transporting the illegally extracted sand.
However, no boats were found during the search operation. Investigators believe that the persons involved in the illegal activity fled the area before the police team reached the spot.
Police are now attempting to identify those responsible for the illegal extraction and storage of the sand.
Illegal sand mining remains a concern
Illegal sand extraction continues to be a major concern in several parts of coastal Karnataka due to its environmental impact and its potential to alter river ecosystems.
Authorities have repeatedly warned that unauthorised sand mining can lead to riverbank erosion, affect aquatic habitats and increase the risk of environmental degradation.
Police and revenue authorities have been conducting regular inspections and enforcement drives to curb such activities and prevent the unauthorised exploitation of natural resources.
Investigation underway
A case has been registered at the Kaup police station in connection with the incident, and further investigation is underway.
Officials said efforts are being made to identify the individuals involved and ascertain whether the illegal activity was part of a larger operation.
The police have also appealed to the public to provide information regarding illegal sand extraction activities so that timely action can be taken against offenders.