Police crack down on rowdy-sheeters, seize suspected illegal timber

Dharwad: In a pre-dawn crackdown on criminal elements, police teams conducted surprise raids on the houses of rowdy-sheeters across various towns and villages in Dharwad district on Wednesday. The operation was carried out under the direction of senior police officials, with teams led by officers, including the DSP, CPI, PSI and other personnel, visiting the residences of known offenders as part of a preventive policing drive.

During the inspections, police verified the activities and backgrounds of rowdy-sheeters and warned them against engaging in unlawful activities. Authorities said the raids were aimed at maintaining law and order and keeping habitual offenders under surveillance.

In a significant development, police recovered a large quantity of suspected illegal timber and wooden logs from the house of a rowdy-sheeter in Holtikoti village under Dharwad Rural police station limits. As the accused reportedly failed to produce valid documents for possessing the timber, forest department officials were immediately informed. Forest officials later visited the spot and conducted an inspection. Further investigation is underway to ascertain the source and legality of the seized material.

Police said a total of 47 rowdy-sheeters’ houses were checked across the district during the operation, and strict warnings were issued to those under surveillance.