Anti-Corruption Blitz: J&K ACB Conducts Massive Raids Across Jammu Division to Curb Illegal Mining

JAMMU, February 25, 2026 — In a major crackdown on the “mining mafia” and bureaucratic corruption, the Jammu and Kashmir Anti-Corruption Bureau (ACB) launched a series of Joint Surprise Checks (JSCs) across multiple districts in the Jammu division.

The operation was triggered by credible complaints alleging that mining block holders (lessees) were conducting widespread illegal extraction in active connivance with officials from the Mining and Ecological Departments. ACB teams carried out extensive searches at stone crushers and mineral offices in Jammu, Kathua, Rajouri, and Reasi.

Preliminary findings revealed that most block holders were operating in blatant violation of mandatory terms and conditions, leading to severe and irreversible ecological degradation in the region.The ACB’s multi-district operation targeted key sites including stone crushers in Bajalta, Gandyal, and Kaller, as well as mining blocks in Saranu, Anji, and Arnas. During these raids, investigators seized mobile phones, computers, and a vast cache of incriminating documents, which are currently being scrutinized to establish the extent of the financial and procedural irregularities.

Simultaneously, as part of an ongoing investigation into FIR 02/2026 involving Inspector Vijay Choudhary, the ACB conducted synchronized searches at luxury residences, farmhouses, and tile factories across Jammu and Rajouri.

This intensified enforcement highlights the government’s resolve to dismantle the nexus between corrupt officials and illegal miners to protect the state’s natural resources.