Illegal Sand Mining in Awantipora: J&K Police Seize Two Motorboats, Arrest Two Suspects
AWANTIPORA JULY 06 :- In a swift crackdown on environmental degradation, the Jammu and Kashmir Police in Awantipora successfully foiled an illegal sand mining operation along the River Jhelum on Monday. Acting on precise intelligence regarding unauthorized sand extraction at Gagri Bal, a targeted raid was executed by the Awantipora Police Station team. During the operation, authorities caught two individuals red-handed while they were actively extracting sand, which was causing severe damage to the riverbanks.
The apprehended suspects have been identified as Reyees Ahmad Bhat, son of Mushtaq Ahmad Bhat, and Sabzar Ahmad Bhat, son of Manzoor Ahmad Bhat, both hailing from the Bahoo area of Awantipora. Law enforcement officials immediately arrested the duo on-site and confiscated the two motorboats utilized in the illegal activity. Following the raid, a formal case has been registered under FIR No. 161/2026 at the Awantipora Police Station, and a comprehensive investigation is currently underway. Reiterating their stance, the J&K Police emphasized their ongoing commitment to enforcing strict legal measures against unauthorized mining and any activities that jeopardize public resources and the local ecosystem.