14 detained in Nayagarh for illegal sand mining

Bhubaneswar: Nayagarh district administration launched a massive crackdown on illegal sand mining late Wednesday night, detaining 14 men.The operation came in the wake of escalating violence linked to unlawful sand and stone extraction in the district. In one shocking incident on Monday, members of the mining mafia brutally murdered local resident Ajit Kumar Sahoo, 38, severing both his hands. Police said the killing stemmed from Sahoo’s alleged attempt to extort operators of illegal mines.District collector Madhumita Rath said raids targetted illegal mining and sand transportation in Madhapur and Patharchakada under Fategarh police station. Superintendent of police S Susree informed that 11 vehicles used in the operations were seized. “We detained 14 suspects. They are being interrogated,” she said.Two illegal sand depots have been busted outside the sand mining area. The local mining officer has been instructed to auction the seized sand as per the rules, collect fines from the nine vehicles and take criminal action against the accused involved.Officials assured that similar enforcement drives will continue. Sahoo’s gruesome death had already triggered public outrage, with locals staging a two-hour road blockade in Odagaon demanding strict action against illegal miners. Residents allege unchecked stone mining has repeatedly fuelled violent conflicts and criminal activity in the region.Police said they are working closely with district mines and revenue officials to curb the menace. “We are tightening enforcement against illegal mining and transportation of stones with the help of mines officials,” Susree said.