Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)
Mangaluru, Mar 21: The CCB police, in collaboration with officials from the land and mining science department, recently conducted a raid on a private sand stocking yard located at Nagathota of Someshwara Ucchila. During the operation, a significant quantity of sand was confiscated, along with four country boats that were found transporting sand in the nearby rivulet.
The sand had been excavated from Battappady beach in Someshwar and was being stockpiled in the yard situated on land belonging to Mohammed Ali, a resident of Nagathota. Reportedly, the sand was being transported to Kerala during the midnight hours. Despite a local social worker bringing the matter to the attention of the Ullal police station, no action was taken. Consequently, the social worker lodged a complaint with the deputy commissioner (DC) over the telephone. It is speculated that the raid was conducted at the behest of the DC.
Following the joint operation conducted by the CCB police and mining department officials, Ullal police were informed of the situation and joined the efforts. However, five individuals involved in the illegal trade managed to evade capture and are currently on the run. The police handed over the seized sand and four country boats to the officials from the land and mining department.
Local residents have urged the DC to take action against landowners who permit illegal sand stockpiling on their private property, suggesting confiscation of their land as a deterrent measure.